July 2, 2009

Rock/Creek Challenges Customers with $5,000 Matching Grant to Save Stringer's Ridge

Chattanooga, TN- Thursday July 2, 2009- Rock/Creek today announces another $1,000 gift to help save Stringer's Ridge. This donation serves as the kickoff to The Rock/Creek Challenge. In the Challenge, customers and friends of Rock/Creek are encouraged to donate to Trust for Public Land (TPL) in order to match Rock/Creek's $5000 commitment to Help Save Stringer's Ridge. This land includes the four hill tops visible from the downtown riverfront toward North Chattanooga. TPL is a national nonprofit land conservation organization that conserves land for people to enjoy as parks, gardens, historic sites and natural places, ensuring quality communities for generations to come. To date, Rock/Creek has donated $2,000 to the Stringer's project. The first gift came from Rock/Creek environmental grant program with Patagonia, a manufacturer of outdoor clothing and gear with a long history of environmental stewardship. This most recent gift came from the money raised at the recent Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race.

The proposed acquisition to preserve the ridge began in 2007, after developers threatened to convert the undeveloped land into mass-residential area. Chattanooga residents opposed the land developer's plot and The Trust for Public Land voted in partnership with the City of Chattanooga to protect the scenic and historic landscape in September 2008. Continuing with today's public campaign, TPL's dream to preserve Stringer's Ridge as an undeveloped area continues to gain ground through support from community groups, individual donations, and corporate donations such as this.

Rick Wood, Chattanooga, Field Office Director for TPL, emphasizes the importance of the Chattanooga community in this effort: "We could not do this kind of work without people stepping up and saying this is really important. This is truly a grassroots-oriented campaign dependent on the diversity of donations. We are so close and it has been amazing to see the outreach and interest."

More than $2 million has been raised of the $2.5 million required to purchase the full 92 acres of property. In January 2009, the trust obtained a 37-acre portion of the ridge along with the landowner's agreement to establish a conservation easement to relinquish rights to future development on the remaining 55 acres. "We have plans to hire ecologists, landscape architects, and historians to truly understand and evaluate the treasure we are acquiring." says Wood. "A public planning meeting will be held for residents and volunteers interested in establishing public parks and building trails."

For over 20 years, Rock/Creek has been committed to taking people into the great outdoors. As a company founded by outdoor instructors, Rock/Creek's environmental mission always includes public outreach and an effort to open new lands to human-powered recreation. "Stringer's Ridge is truly a 'Land for People Project' as this land will be accessible to the public. I personally think this relationship between Rock/Creek and Trust for Public Land is a natural" says Rick Wood.

Mark McKnight, Rock/Creek's Marketing Director, emphasizes the the importance of this project: "Stringer's is in the background of our lives as Chattanoogans, and without the recent threat of development, most people never would have imagined that it needed saving. For those of us who value the recreational opportunities available on the property, or just love the view, we now have a unique opportunity to conserve this land for future generations to enjoy. We all will gain convenient access to a beautiful wild place free from development."

The donation process is simple. Trust for Public Land and Rock/Creek offer several safe avenues for you to participate in the matching challenge. Stop into one of Rock/Creek's store locations to drop off a donation with a manager or send gifts directly to TPL at:

The Trust for Public Land
202 Tremont Street
Chattanooga, TN 37405

You may also donate through Rock/Creek's Web site at http://www.rockcreek.com/stringers/ or TPL's website at www.tpl.org/RockCreek
The website directs you to a secure online payment page, or a PDF you may print out and send back.

For more information about how to support TPL's work on Stringer's Ridge, contact Carla Askonas at 265-5229, ext. 4 or go to www.tpl.org/StringersRidge

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer based in Chattanooga, TN. Rock/Creek was named 2009 Online Retailer of the Year by Backpacker Magazine and SNEWS and was listed as a Top 25 Retailer by Outdoor Business for 2008 and 2009. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association. For related articles on Rock/Creek, visit www.rockcreek.com/media

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 10:44 AM | Comments (0)

July 1, 2009

Reminder: Save 20% on Chacos when you donate shoes ENDS SOON!

Quick reminder: The Chaco recycle program ends next week, on July 5th. Between now and then, purchase any new pair of Chacos, use the coupon code RECYCLE9 and you'll get 20% off, then when your new shoes come in, send us a pair of gently-used shoes that we will donate to those less fortunate.

Rock/Creek is proud to once again support the Chaco Shoe Donation Program, starting this Friday and running through the Fourth of July weekend. This year's Rock/Creek and Chaco partnership will benefit the internationally-recognized non profit organization Soles4Souls based in Nashville, TN. Customers are encouraged to donate gently-used pairs of shoes for this organization to then redistribute to those in need. All brands of men's, women's and children's footwear will be accepted for donation. In it's fifth successful year running, Chaco will offer customers a 20% discount on a new pair of Chaco sandals, the day of donation, for any one pair of lightly used (but re-usable) pair of shoes, boots, or sandals given. Of course, no purchase is required and Rock/Creek invites customers to donate as many pairs of shoes as they would like.

Soles4Souls is an organization derived from one man's vision to offer aid through footwear to those in need. After the tsunami hit Southeast Asia in 2004, CEO and founder Wayne Elsey felt the urge to help. Nearly 250,000 shoes were collected for the tsunami victims, and shortly after Hurricane Katrina devastated our gulf shores, more than 750,000 shoes were collected from the footwear industry. Expanding to international recognition in 2006, Soles4Souls has donated more than 3 Million pairs of shoes to the United States, Central and South America, Europe and Asia.

"In 2008, with the support of loyal Rock/Creek and Chaco customers, over 1,000 pairs of shoes were donated. This year, the shoe donation opportunity will last two weeks and will be available to the public through multiple Rock/Creek venues" says Chaco Representative, Chad Wykle. Stop by Rock/Creek's Hamilton Place and Two North Shore locations starting Friday June 19, 2009 through Sunday July 5, 2009, with used shoes in hand, to receive your 20% discount. The same discount is available for purchasers online at http://www.rockcreek.com/chaco/recycle/ Online, customers are invited to use coupon code RECYCLE9 for their discount, and then they will be responsible for shipping their donation back in the box they receive from Rock/Creek. At the end of the summer, all the shoes collected will be sent to Soles4Souls and then distributed to those in need throughout the world.

Retailers such as Rock/Creek, and community groups, churches, and schools are all avenues for this donation opportunity. "Rock/Creek is always seeking ways to help people and our planet. The 'Chaco Recycle Program' follows our mission to leave a practical legacy of commitment to our community, by recycling older, reusable shoes and preventing them from being trashed in landfills" explains Rock/Creek Marketing Director Mark McKnight. "Who doesn't have a pair of shoes sitting around that just don't work for your foot or don't quite fit perfectly? Now we're giving you the opportunity to clear out your closet and help others at the same time. Our past Chaco shoe donation programs have supported the elimination of Hookworm anemia in Sub-Saharan African villages, and outfitting an entire village in Uganda with their first shoes."

For full information about the 2009 Chaco Recycle Program, visit: http://www.rockcreek.com/chaco/recycle

Learn more about Soles4Souls by clicking the video below, or visit their website at http://www.soles4souls.org/index.html

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:39 AM | Comments (0)

June 25, 2009

Legendary Wilderness Crusader Doug Scott to speak at Rock/Creek on June 26th

REMINDER: This event takes place TOMORROW, THIS FRIDAY. Please come out! It's going to be a great opportunity to learn about saving our wilderness areas and to hear some of the history behind our American wilderness. Oakley has stepped up to provide some catering, so we'll have some food available. Please RSVP so we know how many are coming, but don't let that keep you away if you haven't been able to RSVP.

It takes an act of Congress to designate specific areas of land as forever protected "Wilderness" lands. Our natural, untouched resources are seemingly the most neglected areas by mankind. However, once land is selected, maintenance and preservation is reinforced, prolonging the existence of precious acres all across the nation.

In this current economic time of budget cuts and expenses causing a decrease in advocacy, what will the future be for our unprotected lands? Who will speak for them?

Come join Rock/Creek at the Two North Shore location on Friday, June 26th at 6pm to hear the answers to all these questions and more, as we welcome Doug Scott, a nationally recognized author and Policy Director for the Campaign for America's Wilderness. Rock/Creek has the privilege to host an evening of discussion and a book signing with this transformational public figure, as he talks attendees through his history with Wilderness campaigning, community support, and instruction on how to help pass along a gift to future generations.

Doug formerly managed a local environmental group in the San Juan Islands of Washington State, worked at The Wilderness Society, and for 17 years for the Sierra Club, including as conservation director and associate executive director. Doug was involved in enactment of the Eastern Wilderness Areas Act (1975), The Endangered American Wilderness Act (1978), the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness (Idaho, 1980), The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (1980), and the California Desert Protection Act (California, 1994), among others. Doug's status as a wilderness crusader takes him all around the United States for workshops, panel discussions, book signings, and radio talk show appearances such as the Dian Rehme Show, this past March.

Mark your calendars, and don't miss out on this eye-opening experience, free to the public however, RSVP is required below.
You may also RSVP by calling Rock/Creek at 423.266.8200 ext: 1112. Leave a message with your Name, Number, and Number of expected attendees

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 4:15 PM | Comments (0)

June 24, 2009

Rock/Creek Launches Chattanooga's Summer "Passport to the Outdoors"

Launch out on your Summer adventure, with help from Rock/Creek and Mountain Hardwear, who proudly present your official "Passport to the Outdoors."

Don't wait till the end of summer to start! You have until September 1, 2009 for the chock-full of fun passport to be your guide through adventures with friends and families. Every one is encouraged to complete activities to earn entries into a GRAND PRIZE SWEEPSTAKES.

Here is what you do to get started:
Stop by Rock/Creek's Downtown Two North Shore store or Hamilton Place store during store hours, and pick up the bursting with adventure passport. Each time you complete one of the 5 activities, come back to Rock/Creek, with your passport in hand to receive the approval stamp, and commence to the next activity. But the rewards don't stop there. Mountain Hardwear wants to acknowledge participant's efforts, by pairing a product offer or free item with every completed activity.

Participants have the opportunity to enter five times for the grand prize of a $1000 gift certificate for a retreat at the Snowbird Mountain Lodge in Joyce Kilmer Forest. The certificate may be used for a couple or the entire family. Various lodging options are available and this resort serves as a base for various outdoor activities from trail running to hiking and kayaking. For more details about Snowbird Mountain Lodge visit www.snowbirdlodge.com

In total, you have 5 great activities to accomplish, 5 amazing gear rewards from Mountain Hardwear, 5 possible entries into the Grand Prize Sweepstakes, and 5 potential amazing memories.

"We are excited about the passport launch for Rock/Creek, as it encourages families and individuals to get outside, to try a new activity and bring along a friend and most importantly, to have fun!" says Retail Marketing Manager for Mountain Hardwear, Jill Nickels.

Rock/Creek supports creative ways to help get people outside and explore our big wonderful planet. Our employees are anticipating a positive outcome and we look forward to hearing all the success stories. While it's not required, we would love to see photos and hear your stories of how you get outside this summer. The best submissions will be selected for publication on our blog, located at blog.rockcreek.com. Please email these to Rachel Tucker at rachel@rockcreek.com or drop them by the store.

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 9:58 AM | Comments (0)

Oakley Rolling O Lab Appearing at Rock/Creek

The pulse is irresistible, the sight will attract your eyes like a magnet, the lure will draw you in from across the street... no, I am not talking about a man dressed in Elvis Disco.

If you drive by Rock/Creek Two North Shore location this Friday, June 26, you will be mesmerized by a 40-foot motor coach, decaled from bumper to bumper. Do not be alarmed, they are our friends Oakley.

The famed Rolling- O- Lab will be making an appearance in Chattanooga, TN at Rock/Creek Two North Shore parking lot on Friday June 26th, from 12-6pm. This curbside venue will display Oakley's latest High Definition Optics technology, and demonstrate their sun and sport glass protection.
Oakley Area Representative, Jason Aronson, will be present along with highly knowledgeable Rock/Creek staff.

Stop on by to check out this mobile "science lab" and discover for yourself, why roughly 80% of all Beijing Olympic Athlete's chose Oakley for their eye protection.

Stick around the area for Oakley's continued support of Rock/Creek's Doug Scott Wilderness Talk starting at 6pm. Refreshments will be provided during the book signing.

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 9:56 AM | Comments (0)

June 22, 2009

Save 20% on Chacos through Rock/Creek's Shoe Donation Program

Rock/Creek is proud to once again support the Chaco Shoe Donation Program, starting this Friday and running through the Fourth of July weekend. This year's Rock/Creek and Chaco partnership will benefit the internationally-recognized non profit organization Soles4Souls based in Nashville, TN. Customers are encouraged to donate gently-used pairs of shoes for this organization to then redistribute to those in need. All brands of men's, women's and children's footwear will be accepted for donation. In it's fifth successful year running, Chaco will offer customers a 20% discount on a new pair of Chaco sandals, the day of donation, for any one pair of lightly used (but re-usable) pair of shoes, boots, or sandals given. Of course, no purchase is required and Rock/Creek invites customers to donate as many pairs of shoes as they would like.

Soles4Souls is an organization derived from one man's vision to offer aid through footwear to those in need. After the tsunami hit Southeast Asia in 2004, CEO and founder Wayne Elsey felt the urge to help. Nearly 250,000 shoes were collected for the tsunami victims, and shortly after Hurricane Katrina devastated our gulf shores, more than 750,000 shoes were collected from the footwear industry. Expanding to international recognition in 2006, Soles4Souls has donated more than 3 Million pairs of shoes to the United States, Central and South America, Europe and Asia.

"In 2008, with the support of loyal Rock/Creek and Chaco customers, over 1,000 pairs of shoes were donated. This year, the shoe donation opportunity will last two weeks and will be available to the public through multiple Rock/Creek venues" says Chaco Representative, Chad Wykle. Stop by Rock/Creek's Hamilton Place and Two North Shore locations starting Friday June 19, 2009 through Sunday July 5, 2009, with used shoes in hand, to receive your 20% discount. The same discount is available for purchasers online at http://www.rockcreek.com/chaco/recycle/ Online, customers are invited to use coupon code RECYCLE9 for their discount, and then they will be responsible for shipping their donation back in the box they receive from Rock/Creek. At the end of the summer, all the shoes collected will be sent to Soles4Souls and then distributed to those in need throughout the world.

Retailers such as Rock/Creek, and community groups, churches, and schools are all avenues for this donation opportunity. "Rock/Creek is always seeking ways to help people and our planet. The 'Chaco Recycle Program' follows our mission to leave a practical legacy of commitment to our community, by recycling older, reusable shoes and preventing them from being trashed in landfills" explains Rock/Creek Marketing Director Mark McKnight. "Who doesn't have a pair of shoes sitting around that just don't work for your foot or don't quite fit perfectly? Now we're giving you the opportunity to clear out your closet and help others at the same time. Our past Chaco shoe donation programs have supported the elimination of Hookworm anemia in Sub-Saharan African villages, and outfitting an entire village in Uganda with their first shoes."

For full information about the 2009 Chaco Recycle Program, visit: http://www.rockcreek.com/chaco/recycle

Learn more about Soles4Souls by clicking the video below, or visit their website at http://www.soles4souls.org/index.html

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:09 AM | Comments (0)

June 20, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Member, John Anderson, Takes First Place Before the Summer Season

The weather might have been fair for the 19th annual Collegiate Peaks Trail Run in Buena Vista, Colorado, but that did not inhibit Rock/Creek's Race Team Member, John Anderson, from placing first on May 2, 2009; finishing in 6:58:49; only five minutes behind the course record and setting the second fastest time in race history. The following is a personal race report from the Boulder, Colorado resident, as he carries us through his day:

"I went up to Buena Vista, Colorado last weekend to get my race season going with the Collegiate Peaks 50 mile and 25 mile Trail Run as everything is finally melting out after a snowy spring. The area is probably better known to the boating crowds from Rock/Creek Down Under but with several Fourteener Peaks and hundreds of miles of trails (including the Colorado Trail) it is a sweet running or hiking destination. I might add, it's also a good Disco destination if you head to the local watering hole on Wednesday nights.

As I drove into town Friday night I relived some old memories from the several summers that I guided raft trips on the Arkansas River. The race itself is a combo 25 mile and 50 mile event, with the 50 milers turning around and repeating the same loop in the opposite direction. The course is mainly on four wheel drive roads with several miles of single track and a few of pavement. It starts at 8000 feet and has around 5-6000 ft of climbing with some decent climbs. The unpredictable changes in weather conditions influenced my decision for the following technical gear:

Patagonia Nine Trails Jacket and Shorts, Patagonia Silkweight Tee, SmartWool PhD Ultralight Running Socks, and used the Nathan Waist Pack and the Ultimate Directions Handheld bottle.

The race began at the end of Main Street by the river and with a few quick words from the race director we were off into the cold, foggy morning. I settled into my pace and took in the mountain and river views. The weather was cool and overcast for most of the morning; it just felt good to be out there running. At the turnaround there was another 50 miler, Nick Clark (a UK transplant living in Fort Collins) right behind me and a few others within a few minutes. There was a brief moment as I crossed the river and saw the town play hole that I was thinking "Maybe I should have brought my kayak and only done the 25 miler..." Then I remembered that post-run ice baths feel warm compared to the Arkansas River in May.

After the turnaround we had a several mile climb up out of the river and for the next 10 miles or so Nick stayed about 30 seconds or so back and we put 15-20 minutes on the 3rd and 4th place guys. Right before the 38 mile aid station he caught me, and we chatted for a bit as we rolled into refuel. He then put a few steps on me, but I started to feel really good (or really stupid) and decided that I should make a move on the next big climb. I passed Nick and kept running steady and soon put some distance between us. I didn't see him as I came into the last aid station at mile 44 so I chomped down a gel and headed for the finish.

The final few miles parallel the river on roads and single track, and apart from the headwind I felt pretty good, although I'm pretty sure they added a few extra miles than when I ran the same stretch at the start of the race (just like at the StumpJump 50k where Dawson and the gang seemingly make the parking lot in front of Signal Mountain High School longer at the finish). I came into the finish at 6:58, five minutes off Tony Krupicka's CR from 2007 and the second fastest time in race history. Nick came in a few minutes later at 7:03 and third place, Bryan Goding, came in at 7:37.

All in all, it was a good race and I was happy with the result. It was my first race since Rock/Creek's StumpJump 50k & 11 Miler http://www.rockcreek.com/stumpjump/, last year so I was anxious to see how my fitness was coming along for Bighorn. Besides, my brother is moving back here in a few weeks so I'd better be fit so we can pound each other down. It's time to focus on the Bighorn http://www.bighorntrailrun.com/and get some late race strength. Now, I just need to find a little polyester to wear to Disco night."

-John Anderson

Set your own course records at the Rock/Creek Trail Series. For more information on the series and upcoming races visit: http://www.rockcreek.com/trailseries/

Take a look at the upcoming Greenway 5 Mile Race, ideal for beginners at http://www.rockcreek.com/greenway/

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 9:48 AM | Comments (0)

June 16, 2009

Don't Forget Dad! Great Last-Minute Shipping Deals

Shop Father's Day Gift Ideas >   

   

Photo: Rock/Creek co-owner Dawson Wheeler with son Jake, 1996.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:17 PM | Comments (0)

June 15, 2009

Rock/Creek Helps Connect and Protect Trails on Lookout Mountain

Today Rock/Creek and Patagonia announce a $1,000 donation to the Lula Lake Land Trust. The money will aid in the completion of the long awaited "Connector Trail" from Lula Lake to Cloudland Canyon State Park.

To date, Rock/Creek and Patagonia have contributed $10,225 toward preservation of this land. Adelaide Bratcher, Development Head for the Lula Lake Land Trust, comments on the partnership: "We initially approached Dawson and Marvin at Rock/Creek with the partnership because they sell gear to help get people outside, and they care about land preservation. They offered, without hesitation, to volunteer time and money for trails to be built with a future in public access. From past to present, so much has been accomplished for the community because of people like Dawson and Marvin, and the values they represent."

Dawson Wheeler, co- owner of Rock/Creek says, "We have deep roots in the Chattanooga area and we want this support of Lula Lake to have a lasting impact for years to come. We will continue to aid in the betterment of this beautiful area and look forward to increased public access to the natural resources on Lookout Mountain."

Bratcher explains that final approval with Georgia government agencies is still pending, but with donations such as this one from Rock/Creek and Patagonia, progress toward permanent access is evident. The most recent donations of time and money resulted in the construction of the High Point Trail and its use last year in the inaugural Rock/Creek Lookout Mountain 100K race, which also became the longest trail race in Tennessee history. This race offered a venue for runners to see the beautiful vistas and appreciate the wilderness areas that the Lula Lake Land Trust is striving to connect and protect. The next race to take place on the property will be the first day (June 19th) of the 3-day Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race. For more information on these races, visit http://www.rockcreek.com/trailseries/

About the Lula Lake Land Trust:

The Lula Lake Land Trust is a non-profit organization which promotes land conservation practices by maintaining an environmental preserve, fostering educational and research opportunities, and protecting significant animal and plant life in the Lula Lake area. The Trust maintains portions of land in the northwest corner of Georgia created by the Rock Creek watershed where two water fall systems feed the small lake and offer more than six miles of hiking trails.

Historically, the land was unmonitored and disrespectful practices of mining, clear cutting, and garbage dumping threatened its natural sustainability. Mr. Robert M. Davenport purchased segments of property in 1958, establishing the core acres of property to The Lula Lake Land Trust.

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer based in Chattanooga, TN. Rock/Creek was named 2009 Online Retailer of the Year by Backpacker Magazine and SNEWS and was listed as a Top 25 Retailer by Outdoor Business for 2008 and 2009. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, travel and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association. For related articles on Rock/Creek, visit www.rockcreek.com/media/

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:23 AM | Comments (0)

June 7, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Member, Jeff Edmonds, Runs Among Giants

Defeat within Victory? Jeff Edmonds words on running and progress:

Rock/Creek Race Team member Jeff Edmonds, of Nashville, TN took first place in the Avenue of the Giants Marathon, 1/2 Marathon and 10K in Northern California on May 12, 2009. Jeff finished with a quick marathon time of 2:47:51 with a pace of 6:24.

This popular Marathon is a Boston Qualifier and is famed for being well organized and rated by RUNNERS WORLD as one of the most scenic in the country. The race is held in the Humboldt Redwood State Park, about 250 miles north of San Francisco. It started up in May 1972 after a local running club, Six Rivers Running Club, wanted a course that would give them a chance to qualify for the 1972 US Olympic Trials. The course [PDF map] is a double out and back, starting under a canopy of Redwoods, and finishing with a gradual six mile uphill climb reportedly comparable to Boston's famous "Heartbreak Hill."

Since his win, Jeff has had time to ponder the marathon, and if you ever wondered what a Philosopher thought of racing, click the link to "Logic of Long Distance- Running and Philosophy" to read his opinions on the Avenue
of the Giants Marathon, and more...

" None of this, of course, was running through my head at the starting line. I was thinking the same things I always think. Relax. Let the pace come to you. Trust in your training..."

[Some explicit language and opinions, personal to Jeff, are expressed within "The Logic of Long Distance." Please make note before reading]

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 10:54 AM | Comments (0)

June 3, 2009

To Bail, Perchance to Run Better Another Day - Ay, There's the Rub

No one wants to even think about these things in preparation for an upcoming race...but these tips could save your life. (A few notes from our Rock/Creek Trail Series Medical Director in preparation for the upcoming Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race)

"You are in the thick of things - trees whizzing by in a blur, feet flying, wind in your face - all those days of training are paying off. You are on pace for a new PR, until...ouch!"

I hate it when that happens. Some dumb painful thing interrupts your racer's high. Sometimes you just need to cowboy (or cowgirl) up and work through it. But sometimes working through it is the worst thing you could do. How can you tell the difference? Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

The "Duh" List
These are things that you are just going to have to stop for. Sorry, Superman, Wonder Woman - bad days happen, & you will be able to live to compete another day when you stop after noticing these:

1. Broken Bones

Maybe you've met someone who kept going even though they had a broken bone in an event. They were lucky. When you continue to move with a broken bone, you are risking internal injuries to the surrounding tissue from the bone fragments. You really don't want to add a torn blood vessel to your list of things to recover from.

How can you tell if there is a fracture? Check for these signs...

• There is heavy bruising
• Even gentle pressure or movement causes pain.
• The limb or joint appears deformed.
• The bone has pierced the skin.
• The extremity of the injured arm or leg, such as a toe or finger, is numb or bluish at the tip.

2. Head Trauma

I have seen this happen up close several times. A person falls & their head hits the ground...they may be out for just a moment, or a few minutes, or perhaps not at all. Their first instinct is to jump up - usually due to embarrassment - & get right back to what they were doing. The scary thing about head trauma is that it may take some time before any internal damage shows on the outside. Even if you feel fine, you must get checked out at a hospital as soon as possible after losing consciousness.

3. Snake Bites

If you're bitten - don't suck the wound, try not to move that part of your body very much, & bail. You need to get medical attention. It takes 30 min. to prepare the anti-venom for the snakes in the Southeast. Don't waste that time.

4. Allergic Reactions

Most often this will be from an insect sting, but it could be the day that you discover you're allergic to the latest flavor of power bars that you saved up just for race day. (Bummer!) If you start to have swelling around your lips or in your throat, get help right away! If you know that you're allergic to insects, have asthma, etc., carry your medications with you during the event. The car is too far.

5. Chest Pain / "Heartburn" / Pressure in the Chest

Just this year a runner experienced a heart attack & passed away at the Nashville Marathon. Years ago I lost a relative who died during the Marine Corps Marathon. Chest pain is not normal for an athlete. Stop & call for help.

6. Dazed & Confused

If your arms and legs seem to have a mind of their own, if your mind doesn't seem to mind that you don't quite recall what it is you're doing out there, if you are getting dizzy, sleepy, severely nauseated, or are unusually short of breath, it's time to start looking for those pretty red crosses of the medical personnel. They are your friends and are there to help you find your way back to the real world!


The "What The?" List
When you deck out, especially when it happened too quickly to tuck & roll, check for these signs.

1. Sprained ankle / knee / wrist / etc.

If you can't move the joint or put any weight on it because of instability or pain, The pain is severe, If you have a fever and the joint is red and hot

2. Bleeding

Any bleeding from your skull, or bleeding that surges with your pulse needs to be addressed right away.  Put pressure on the wound with your shirt - or better yet, someone else's shirt - and get help.

3. Dizziness

See "Dazed & Confused" above.

The "Pause-&-Check" List
These are things that can be the early signs of something more serious, or you may be able to push through them.  Learn to discern which is which before race time so that you'll know when you are in the midst of your event.
   1. Rash - is it from sweating or is it hives?
   2. Redness - am I overheating or getting a sunburn?
   3. Cramping - is in one area or spreading to others?
   4. Thirst - am I drinking enough during this event?
   5. Headache - is it a searing pain or is my iPod just too loud?

Again, we all hope that none of these things happens to anyone during a race, but if they do, you can be prepared to take the right actions that will help you live to run better another day.

For more information on running in the heat or cold, or on how to stay hydrated, check out the Run Fit page on the Archer Physical Therapy web site: www.archerpt.com

About the author:

Archer Physical Therapy offers unique assistance at many events in the TN & GA area through the Event Medical Coverage & Recovery Acceleration Program, developed by Debra Martin, MSPT, CLT. Debra has combined her 15 years of experience in treating wounds & athletic injuries throughout the rehabilitation process with cutting-edge research on medical care to meet the needs of endurance and adventure-sports athletes. In fact, she's probably thinking of ways to get you better even faster while you are reading this - she's just that cool. She also set the record for the flexed arm hang test at Leda Shishoff Elementary School at a little over 2 min., & perhaps would still be there if the gym teacher had not made her come down.
You may reach Archer Physical Therapy at 423-693-5490 or find out more on the web: www.archerpt.com

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 1:57 PM | Comments (0)

June 2, 2009

Rock/Creek Announces New Finisher's Prize from SmartWool for the Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race

Two more weeks to sign up for this challenging trail running race

Today Rock/Creek announces a new finisher's prize for their 3nd annual Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race, presented by SmartWool benefiting The Boonies. The first 50 racers who finish all three grueling days will receive a merino top honoring them as finishers in one of the most challenging races in the area. The third running of the race will take place on June 19, 20, 21, 2009. This caliber of a race, never seen in the Southeast until recently, consists of 3 exhilarating days of mountainous trail running.

"All race battle wounds are healed from last year's debut race, and racers now have experience with the intense course. This should really up the ante and make for a high level of competition" says Mark McKnight, one of the race organizers; "We already have ten states represented and I imagine SmartWool's finisher's prize will attract even more world-class athletes to Chattanooga."

The course showcases three beautiful mountains surrounding Chattanooga, including 20 miles on Lookout Mountain on day one, 18 miles on Raccoon Mountain on day two, and 22 miles to a grand finish on Signal Mountain for day three.

This challenging yet attainable race benefits The Boonies (Wilderness Trail Running Association) with their ongoing trail building and maintenance campaigns. The race will be presented by Rock/Creek, sponsored by SmartWool, Marmot, Salomon, Hammer Nutrition and Greenlife. Pre-registered participants will receive a technical tee by Marmot. Prizes and raffles will be provided as well. The race is the fourth in the 2009 Rock/Creek Trail Series; the next race will be the Greenway 5 Mile Trail Race in August.

See full details and register online at
http://www.rockcreek.com/stagerace/

REGISTRATION + free Tee Shirt offer ENDS JUNE 11, 2009
Late Registrants after JUNE 11, will not receive a tee-shirt

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 4:06 PM | Comments (0)

June 1, 2009

Rock/Creek Raises $5,000 for The Boonies at 3rd Annual Scenic City Trail Marathon

(Chattanooga, TN)- Locally-owned specialty outdoor retailer Rock/Creek today announces a $5,000 donation for The Boonies, the latest in a string of donations stemming from the Rock/Creek Trail Series. The Boonies will use the money to help run future events as well as secure access to single track trails. These funds came from last Saturday morning's third annual Scenic City Trail Marathon and Half Marathon, presented by Vasque PROJECT and Rock/Creek. Other contributing sponsors include SmartWool, Marmot, The North Face, and Hammer Nutrition. Local sponsors include Greenlife Grocery and Cleveland Toyota.

Threatening clouds and the forecast rain held off just long enough for the 183 half marathon and 73 marathon finishers to come across the line. The race took place on the trails around TVA's Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility. Compared to 2008, the race saw 25% growth in half marathon runners and 62% growth in marathon runners.

The course makes this a fast race, and this years' winner set a new course record. Rock/Creek Race Team Member Matt Sims cruised through the cloudy weather for an overall winning time of 3:11:47; nearly 27 minutes faster than last years' Marathon time of 3:38:04. Sims had this to say: "I am pleased with the race and I did exactly what I wanted to do. My hope was to stay with the lead group for the first loop and then try to gain ground through miles 17 through 24. This section is the more difficult and I figured it would be a good place to get ahead. It was a great course and a quality event."

Brenda Simril from Chattanooga battled it out on the course and placed first overall female with a time of 3:52:55. Second male overall was Josh Hite from Cookeville, TN with a time of 3:17:46 and Brenda's husband and owner of Simril Multisport Coaching, Coach Lee Simril placed third in 3:25:35. Dreama Campbell, also of Chattanooga, placed second female overall with 3:58:32. Cheri Fine from Atlanta, GA placed third female overall with a time of 4:00:53.

In the half marathon, Theodore Towse of Nashville took first in 1:29:18, just 3 minutes shy of last year's winning time and the current course record of 1:26:51. Sam Linhoss from Chattanooga and Jonathan Warner from Ringgold, GA were less than a minute apart. Linhoss placed second male in 1:30:41 and Warner placed third in 1:31:11. Taking the women's title, Jan Gautier from Chattanooga finished with a time of 1:39:13 followed by Theresa Saupé from Murfreesboro, TN in 1:44:30. Rock/Creek employee Deborah Jones from Hixson, TN finished third in 1:49:55.

Race Director Jonathan Mobley enjoyed the race, as he explains: "It was a great race overall. You could feel the excitement at the start line coming from a group of runners, far surpassing the number of participants in last year's race. It is encouraging to see the Rock/Creek Trail Series grow and I look forward to seeing more people experience these races in the future. I am extremely grateful to the volunteers, the sponsors, and the Vasque PROJECT for giving their time and resources to make this race possible."

The course runs along the perimeter trail of Raccoon Mountain, a TVA pumped-storage facility, and is a low impact single track created by SORBA (Southeast Off-Road Bicycle Organization). The trails offer declines, straight-a-ways, a rock bridge bypass, and hill climbs, making it one of the best trail running and mountain biking locations within 25 minutes of downtown Chattanooga.

Proceeds from both events go to The Wilderness Trail Running Association (aka The Boonies) and will be used for future trail races, trail maintenance, and sustainability efforts in the Cumberland and Southern Appalachian Mountains. A portion of the money raised will go to help with SORBA's trail building efforts. $2,000 of the total came from Vasque's PROJECT Thanks, an initiative that has been developed to drive awareness and donations to marquee nonprofit groups working to preserve trails across the country. The Vasque PROJECT is an effort, through nation-wide sponsorship of trail races, to foster competition, community, and stewardship. Through PROJECT Thanks, Vasque PROJECT event directors encourage partners to donate a portion of race fees to trail preservation or similar philanthropic groups in their local area. The Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k on October 3rd and The Lookout Mountain 100K & 10K on December 19th will also be part of The Vasque PROJECT.

The Scenic City Trail Marathon is part of the increasingly popular Rock/Creek Trail Series, a year-long trail running race series with 9 race dates and 13 distance options. The race attained national recognition this year with runners representing 10 states. The next event in the series is the Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race, taking place on June 19, 20, and 21. For more information on the series, visit http://www.rockcreek.com/trailseries/

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer based in Chattanooga, TN. Rock/Creek was named 2009 Online Retailer of the Year by Backpacker Magazine and SNEWS and was listed as a Top 25 Retailer by Outdoor Business for 2008 and 2009. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, travel and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association. For related articles on Rock/Creek, visit www.rockcreek.com/media/

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:18 PM | Comments (0)

May 28, 2009

Free Gifts & Hot Deals for Camping, Travel, Hiking, Paddling & more

Sale Sandals Rain Jackets All Jackets

Climbing Gear Paddling Gear Travel Gear Camping & Hiking Gear

Sign Up to Win Gear Sign up today for a chance to WIN $500 Travel Gear Package Click here to Sign Up >

	CamelBak Sale Ends 6/2 > Free Footprint & Sale & Rebate on Tents from Mountain Hardwear > Free Columbia Hat With Purchase > Free Footprint w/ MSR Hubba & Hubba Hubba > Free Belt with $100 Purchase of Men's Mountain Hardwear > Paddling Sale Ends 5/31 >

Follow us on Twitter Find us on Facebook www.RockCreek.com Store: 301 Manufacturers Road Mail: PO Box 4838 Chattanooga, TN 37405 Tel: 888.707.6708 View our Privacy Policy

Photo courtesy Chaco, "Playing in the Havasu Falls, Grand Canyon." *A few little restrictions apply. See site for full offer details. Please add info@RockCreek.com to your e-mail address book. See link below for other subscription management options. Change email address >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 6:03 PM | Comments (0)

May 15, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Member Matt Karzen Runs for a Cause

For over 20 years, Rock/Creek has encouraged our customers to make a difference in the world. We are passionate about community outreach and open our resources such as blogs, event postings, and advertisements to share our neighbors' efforts. Rock/Creek works for positive change in the community through monetary pledges and tangible support, not to call attention to ourselves, but to raise awareness of the impact we can all have in the world.

In this spirit, we wanted to "hand over the microphone" now and post the following from our friend and Rock/Creek Race Team Member, Matt Karzen:

"Friends - On July 25, 2009, sometime well before sunrise, I will commence to put one foot in front of the other, and run the length of the Georgia Appalachian Trail (76 ish miles) straight through, as a fundraising effort for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation

This organization provides educational opportunities through grants to the children of fallen U.S. Special Forces operators - a most worthy cause. Each of these children have sacrificed a parent so that we may be a bit more secure here in the United States. The SOWF organization's purpose is to be an avenue to help us help them. Please consider making a generous donation to this cause - you can do so by going to my sponsorship web page at www.firstgiving.com/gaatrun. I am donating $500.00.

Those of you who enjoy epic adventure, I would love to have some company for all or part of the run, or if you simply want to enjoy the north Georgia mountains for a while. I sure could use the help of someone meeting me at the various places where the AT intersects civilization with some food and drink... Any and all support is welcome and appreciated, but the most important thing you can do is contribute to the cause by making a financial donation.

A very small percentage (7.5% or so) of each donation made on the Firstgiving website goes to Firsgiving to help them absorb their costs, but ALL other funds received go to SOWF. If you would rather make a donation by check, you can mail it to me and I will forward all funds to SOWF. Please email me if you would like to make a donation by check or if you are interested in participating along the way.

Please email me, these kids need and deserve our help.

Thank you all for taking the time to consider this, and definitely spread the word!"
-Matt Karzen

email: mjkarzen@bellsouth.net.

Good luck Matt! Thanks for all you're doing for the foundation. Again, please help out by donating online at: www.firstgiving.com/gaatrun. You can check on Matt's fundraising progress with the widget below. We'll also post updates here as we hear more about the run.

For further information about Special Forces Warrior Foundation check out this short video >

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 5:05 PM | Comments (0)

May 7, 2009

Rock/Creek Used Gear Sale in Chattanooga

Rock/Creek at Two North Shore, in Chattanooga TN, will offer a venue for the community to peddle gear at our (almost) annual Used Gear Sale on Saturday June 6th 2009 from 11am- 4pm. We invite everyone to come out and turn any unused gear hogging space in your closet into cash. Rock/Creek will provide closeout specials so you can make use of that saved cash for new gear.

This popular sidewalk sale will draw out all sorts of gear for the outdoor enthusiast to peruse. Previous years have seen kayaks, car racks, and a multitude of nick-nacks and outdoor essentials. Anyone from the community is welcome to set up a makeshift shop from their car to display items from their closet depths.

If you are interested in participating, reserve your sidewalk space by Monday June 1st. There is no cost to making reservations, therefore, sign up soon, because slots will be awarded on a first come first serve basis, with a total of 12 parking spaces available. Participants selling gear will need to arrive in the parking lot by 9:30 am to set up.

(Due to the nature of this event, all gear sales are final and not made in association with Rock/Creek's in store merchandise. Therefore, Rock/Creek is not obligated toward returns, exchanges or warranties, nor liable for injury caused after the event of the gear sale; always use discretion before making a used gear purchase)

To make Reservations:
Contact Will Cornett by email at will@rockcreek.com
Rock/Creek Two Northshore phone number: 423.265.5969

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 12:28 PM | Comments (0)

May 6, 2009

Rock/Creek Youngest Race Member takes 7th at Twenty12 ID

Rock/ Creek Race Team's youngest member, Johanna Gartman age 15, was youngest again as she competed Saturday April 18, 2009 in the USAT 2012 Talent ID Race, following the 2009 Collegiate National Triathlon Championships in Lubbock, TX at Buffalo Springs Lake. The course consists of a 750m swim, 20K bike and 5K run. Johanna finished 7th, surpassed only by women primarily age 25 and above, who were invited to this race because they were ranked in the 90th percentile nationally with hopes of showcasing their talent for a transition from amateur age grouper to professional elite.

Johanna was the third female out of the frigid 56 degree water with a swimtime of 6:43, was able to hang on the back wheel and contribute to a pace line on a hilly, windy three lap course with a biketime of 46:48 at 16.7mph, and ended up with the fourth fastest run time with a runpace of 7:01 and runtime of 21:47.

Johanna accomplished her goal of wanting another ITU race under her belt before competing in the Pan American Championships next month. At the Pan American Tirathlon Confederation Championships (PATCO) race in Oklahoma City, she will actually be representing the U.S. for the first time, racing against the best Junior Elite (16-19) girls from Canada, the U.S., and South America. The U.S. girls will contend for one of the three available spots on the Junior National Team, which will travel to World Championships in Gold Coast, Australia this September. The two other slots will be granted to the top two females at the Strawberry Fields Junior Elite Cup in Oxnard, CA, where Johanna will race in July.

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 9:30 AM | Comments (0)

May 4, 2009

Registration Now Open for Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon

Registration is now open for one of Chattanooga's most popular trail running events of the season, the Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon. The events, taking place on May 23rd, are part of the Rock/Creek Trail Series and the 2009 Vasque PROJECT. The race weekend will also consist of an athlete clinic and a fundraiser for the Wilderness Trail Running Association, (aka The Boonies).

Proceeds from race day will be donated to the Boonies, an organization that focuses on maintaining trails in the Cumberland and southern Appalachian mountains. In addition to funds raised by Rock/Creek, Vasque footwear, event sponsor, will match donations up to a predetermined amount. Vasque donations are part of a new program, PROJECT Thanks, which is designed to assist trail preservation groups across the country.

Rock/Creek will also be hosting a trail running clinic during packet pick up, Friday May 22nd, the evening prior to the race. Shiloh Mielke, Vasque athlete and popular trail runner from Asheville, NC, will be leading the clinic and speaking on basics of trail running, his experiences, and deliver helpful tips on running gear.

To register for the race or for more details about the clinic, Rock/Creek, or the Boonies, please visit http://www.rockcreek.com/trailmarathon/.

About Vasque PROJECT 2009:

The Vasque PROJECT 2009 is a nationwide effort to foster competition, community, and environmental stewardship through Vasque's sponsorship of trail‐running events throughout the U.S. and Canada. The PROJECT includes 45 trail races in 12 states. Major races and race series include the Great Eastern Series in Charlottesville, VA, the Rock/Creek Trail Series in Chattanooga, TN, the Great Lakes Endurance Series in Northern, MI, the Golden Leaf Half Marathon in Aspen, CO, the Cougar Trail Series in Seattle, WA, the Rogue Trail Series in Austin, TX, the Fast Trax Trail Series in Edmonton, Alberta, the DINO Trail Series in Indianapolis, IN, Peter's Canyon Trail Series in Irvine, CA, the Grand Teton Races in Jackson Hole, WY, the River City Ramble in Red Wing, MN, and the Triple Lakes Races in Greensboro, NC. For more information about Vasque PROJECT 2009, or for details on products and retailers, visit www.vasque.com.

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer based in Chattanooga, TN. Rock/Creek was named 2009 Online Retailer of the Year by Backpacker Magazine and SNEWS and was listed as a Top 25 Retailer by Outdoor Business for 2008 and 2009. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association. For related articles on Rock/Creek,visit www.rockcreek.com/media/.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:58 PM | Comments (0)

Rock/Creek Kayak Demo Offers Latest and Greatest

Do not let your Saturday float on by without visiting Rock/Creek and Outdoor Chattanooga's Kayak Demo, Saturday May 9th from 10 AM to 4 PM at Camping World in East Ridge.

Do you desire to see what the latest and greatest boats are before your investment or are you looking to start up the sport but do not know where to begin? This demo is for you! All variations of shape, size, style, color, and brand will be FREE to the public for testing. Boats from Liquid Logic, Native Watercraft, Dagger, Wilderness Systems and Perception, as well as a selection of paddles from Werner Paddles will be available for demo in the Camping World Campground Lake located at Exit 1 off I-75. No need to make reservations or bring personal gear. Our Rock/Creek Down Under Staff and Outdoor Chattanooga Staff will be available for help. All you need to participate is a willingness to have fun, and get wet! We will see you there!

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 12:02 PM | Comments (0)

April 30, 2009

Rock/Creek & Backpacker Challenge You to "Get Out More"

A note worthy event occurred Tuesday evening at Rock/Creek's Two North Shore location, as Rock/Creek hosted Backpacker Magazine "Get Out More Tour 2009". Do you wish for a well planned camping trip, yet you do not know what gear you need to start? Or for our seasoned backpackers; Do you want to hear specs and tips on the latest technology and gear? This six month tour, stops at 50+ specialty retailers nationwide to educate guests on the skills and gear needed to "Get Out More".

For eight years now, Backpacker Magazine's outdoor experts have been offering a hands-on training workshop to show consumers the latest gear and answer the common questions, "how does that work" or "what does that do." New tips and techniques were presented by outdoor experts Sheri and Randy Propster. This couple has gear tested all sorts of products, and knows what works best for a variety of skill levels.

Their enthusiasm for adventure was spread to all attendees of this year's event, and Rock/Creek offers a special thank you to Backpacker Magazine for including Rock/Creek as a designated stop, and the community of participants who came out Tuesday evening.

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 2:19 PM | Comments (0)

April 27, 2009

Rock/Creek's Kris Whorton Sets New Record For Female Masters Runner in 100 Mile Event

Simril Multisport Coaching's Lee Simril Interview with Ultra Runner Kris Whorton


Please join our Rock/Creek Race Team family in celebration of Kris Whorton's amazing accomplishment at Umstead 100. We honor her achievement by sharing this inspiring interview between Rock/Creek's Kris Whorton, and our newest Rock/Creek Chronicle guest writer, Coach Lee Simril, from Simril Miltisport Coaching:

LS: Congratulations on finishing the 2009 Umstead 100 mile Trail Race

KW: Thanks. It's been a good week.

LS: Is it true that you set a new record for female masters runners in a 100 mile event?

KW: Yes. The previous record was 17:13, set by Connie Gardner in 2006.

LS: How was your training leading up to the big day?

KW: Training for Umstead was a bit atypical because we had a big 4 months last year with four 100 milers between July 19th and November 8th so I figured I would just carry it through the year after I signed up for Umstead in September. The first 100 was great, but we DNF'd on the second (three weeks later) with only about 18 miles to go. I still feel wonder at what happened to us on that one because we both felt good physically but we weren't into it mentally after about 55 miles for me and 75 for Randy. The next two 100s went well but I think I came out of the year feeling a little more worn out than I expected I would. I guess I was mentally tired because my head just wasn't in my training over the next few months and although I did the miles, averaging about 50 a week from November to the end of February and ran a few races, I didn't have my head in them and without the mental component, I just wasn't running like I wanted to. Umstead had been in the back of my mind for months, but I hadn't committed emotionally and I didn't want to go up there and run a half-assed race so about the third week of February I had a little talking to myself about commitment and attitude. Two weeks later we headed over to Mississippi and I ran a really solid, comfortable race, and had a PR. It gave me the mental confidence I needed and I figured I could gut out a borderline 17 hour finish at Umstead. I kept my mileage up for the second and third week of March and then only ran about 35 miles two weeks before and 4 miles the week of Umstead.

LS: Please give me a run down of your nutrition for race day, beginning with the night before the race and ending at the finish line.

KW: At about 4:30 we had an early dinner of rice pilaf, mashed potatoes, broccoli, and a beer. Race morning I had a little oatmeal about 2 hours before the start and half of a Recoverite. I'm not a big eater before or during races because I don't want to give my stomach fits. During the race, I had a Heed/ Perpetuem mix in my water bottle about every hour and I went through about two packets of Clif Blocks. I also ate a few cantaloupe cubes, a few pieces of potato with salt, and in the early evening, I drank Mountain Dew or Pepsi at the aid stations to try to settle my stomach a bit. The Heed/Perpetuem mix really works for me. Randy met me with a Recoverite at the end of the race.

LS: Please tell me your best moment of race.

KW: The whole day was really lovely and I enjoyed most of it, but I actually enjoyed mile 98.5 to 99.5 the most. We were running up the road to make the last turn into the finish stretch and it felt like we were flying because we were moving so fast. I don't know what the actual time on that mile was but it felt like a 7 minute mile and it was really empowering to feel so strong and so good at that stage. I felt like I could run like that pace for a couple more miles.

LS: Please tell me your worst moment of the race.

KW: I don't think I really had any worst moments on this one. Two years ago I had a lot of stomach problems and had many pit stops so when my stomach started going south on lap 7, I was a little concerned. I had to stop three times during those 25 miles but it was okay and everything held together.

LS: Did you use any pacers or safety runners during the race?

KW: I did run with "pacers" from 50 miles onward but it was more for conversation/company than pacing. Randy ran 50 to 75 with me and Stephen Smith ran the last 25. Pacing is really a misnomer because it's unrealistic for someone who's run 50 miles to be able to keep up with someone fresh. The "pacer" is there for companionship and the runner sets the pace. My companions, Randy and Stephen, did a great job keeping me company and I was happy to run with my usual training partners. I ended up feeling like I was out there on a training run.

LS: Did you get to enjoy the post race party? Do they have post race parties at 100 mile running races?

KW: We had our own little post race party actually. I came in about 3.5 minutes after the lead woman (Jill Perry) and didn't realize at the time that she had just finished. She was nearly 40 minutes ahead of me at the end of the 6th lap so I had no idea I was so close to her. I came in and Blake, the race director, and some of the other race personnel were talking to her but I still didn't get that she had just finished. My contacts were kind of gooped up from the pollen and I noticed a guy off to my left. He was standing there sort of expectantly and I didn't recognize that he was my friend Kean Hankins from Pinhoti. Randy came running in, bummed he'd missed the photo op at the finish line and Stephen sort of stepped off to the side. Then I realized the guy was Kean and Randy, then Stephen, and then Kean hugged me. We went inside, sat in front of the fire about 20 minutes, and just felt happy. Randy took care of me like he always does--he handed me a long sleeve shirt and a Recoverite and was generally awesome. Kean gave me a bottle of Champagne and then Randy, Stephen and I went back to the hotel and I got a shower, a beer, and some pizza. I could only handle about 2 bites but it was good. The race "party" was the next day at noon when the race was officially over but by then, we were nearly to Asheville where we had a great lunch of bison burgers, spinach salad and beer.

LS: What motivates you to compete in Ultra Running Races, as opposed to just exercising for the sake of fitness?

KW: I love running and being outside. Races give me the opportunity to explore a new or favorite place, to see old friends, and to get food and water on the way. Some people really get inspired by the competition element but I'm not very good about thinking in terms of beating someone else because I see a race as a challenge to myself and it doesn't make sense to try to have it be about how or what I can do against someone else. Sometimes I go into them with a goal, but usually I just want to enjoy the day. Races also encourage me to stay on track with my training--if I don't put in the miles, it will be harder to get through the event.

LS: What are some of your race plans for the rest of 2009?

KW: We have a fun marathon planned in Louisville at the end of the month (Kentucky Derby), Sweetwater 50K in Georgia in May, and Tahoe 100 in July. We don't have anything on the schedule beyond that, except maybe UpChuck 50k but Randy is planning on Pinhoti and I'll probably crew for him to return the favor for all he's done for me the last 6 months.

About the author:

Lee Simril, USAT Certified Coach, USA Swimming Coach

"Since competing in his first triathlon in 1985, Lee has had a passion for the sport. Lee was the captain of his soccer team at Brevard College and went on to run track at High Point College in N.C. He was a captain and MVP at the conference and district meets. After college, he competed nationally as a Triathlete. Lee thought he would eventually get a "real" job and leave sports behind, until he met his wife Brenda. Brenda was equally passionate about endurance sports, and within a few years, they had formed a four person Adventure Racing team that won the United States Adventure Racing Association's (USARA) National Championship. Lee has coached Soccer, Masters Swimming, Youth Swimming, and Track and field for over twenty years. For the last thirteen years he worked for the American Bicycle Group (ABG), which manufactures Litespeed, Merlin and QR bicycles. During this time he worked with top athletes from around the world in the sales and design of wetsuits and bicycles." Check out the Simril Multisport Coaching website to find out how you can "Reach Your Full Potential" through SMC for quality consultation and training www.simrilmultisportcoaching.com/default.html.

The next races in the Rock/Creek Trail Series have opened registration. Check out these upcoming races:

Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, Presented by Vasque
May 23, 2009 - Raccoon Mountain - Chattanooga, TN
http://www.rockcreek.com/trailmarathon/

Chattanooga Mountains Stage Race
3 days of mountain trail running: 22 mile / 18 mile / 20 mile
June 19-21, 2009
Lookout, Raccoon, and Signal Mountains
http://www.rockcreek.com/stagerace/

Rock/Creek Stump Jump 50K
50K & 11 Mile Trail Running Race
October 3, 2009
Chattanooga, TN
http://www.rockcreek.com/stumpjump/

Posted by Rachel Tucker at 10:52 AM | Comments (0)

April 22, 2009

Keen wins 3rd Annual Rock/Creek Environmental Stewardship Award

In honor of Earth Day, Rock/Creek Honors KEEN with 3rd Annual Environmental Stewardship Award.

Chattanooga, TN, April 22, 2009 -- Rock/Creek today announces KEEN as the 2009 recipient of the 3nd Annual Rock/Creek Environmental Stewardship Award.

Rock/Creek, a Chattanooga-based independent outdoor retailer, created the award to celebrate Earth Day and recognize one vendor's efforts to reduce environmental impact. Broad criteria for selection include: manufacturing and design innovations, waste reduction, elimination of hazardous chemicals, recycling, and reducing energy consumption.

KEEN joins previous award winners Patagonia and Chaco in being recognized as environmental leaders by Rock/Creek.  

Rock/Creek Marketing Director Mark McKnight describes the process: "KEEN's bold action to reduce their environmental footprint as well as the transparency with which they have analyzed their own operations through their sustainability 'Report Card' is worthy of notice. In the end, their focus on creating community and focusing on the customer as the reason behind their sustainability efforts made them the best choice for the 3rd Annual Rock/Creek Environmental Stewardship Award."

"It is rare to have a company so motivated to get involved with local retailers and support local community.  KEEN has really become a user-friendly company in regards to fundraising and campaigning their cause," explains Rock/Creek co-owner, Marvin Webb. "In addition to their global environmental efforts, KEEN has supported the Rock/Creek Trail Series, which helps us build trails and secure access here in Chattanooga."

Jeff Weathersbee, the Sales Representative accepting the award on behalf of KEEN, shares his enthusiasm: "This is awesome!  We (KEEN) really appreciate the recognition and we are excited to be a part of such a great relationship with Rock/Creek.  KEEN has been a proud partner with Rock/Creek for many community programs."

Rock/Creek carries KEEN's Harvest Mary Jane shoe as well as the Pettygrove Hand Bag, both made from recycled rice paper found on the floors of Asian factories. Rock/Creek also has KEEN shoes and bags made from recycled aluminum, recycled polyester, as well as a special leather called Low Impact to the Environment Leather (LITE), created by Keen with German-owned leather tannery located in China. KEEN also has aggressive goals for replacing diesel and coal-fired electric power with hydroelectric power.

For more information on sustainable materials, low-impact gear and clothing, as well as Rock/Creek's own environmental initiatives, visit http://www.rockcreek.com/earth-day/

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association.

###

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:05 PM | Comments (0)

April 10, 2009

10% Off Chacos + We'll Donate $5,000 for Access

Sale Sandals Fleece Jackets Casual Shoes

Day Packs Hiking Boots Performance Shirts Jackets

Sign Up to Win Gear Sign up today for a chance to WIN a North Face Green Gear Package Click here to Sign Up >

	Men's Chaco Z/1 Sandals > Women's Chaco Z/1 Sandals > Women's Chaco ZX/1 Sandals > Men's Chaco Z/2 Sandals > Women's Chaco Z/2 Sandals > Women's Chaco ZX/2 Sandals >

Photo: "Southeastern Climbers' Coalition board member Gus Fontenot many years ago on the Steele classic Monopoly Arete."

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:23 PM | Comments (0)

April 9, 2009

Rock/Creek and Chaco Commit to Raise $5000 to Reopen Climbing Area

Chattanooga, TN (PRWEB) April 9, 2009 -- Independent outdoor retailer Rock/Creek and specialty footwear manufacturer Chaco have partnered with the Southeastern Climbers Coalition to raise $5,000 toward the purchase of a long-closed climbing crag in Steele, AL. A portion of the proceeds from every Chaco Performance Sandal sale at Rock/Creek from now until Earth Day will be donated to this effort. Talented filmmaker Josh Fowler and photographer Andrew Kornylak donated their time to produce a video introduction to the Steele story. The film is currently posted online: www.rockcreek.com/steele/.

Historical photo of Gus Fontenot, Southeastern Climbers Coalition board member, climbing the Monopoly Arete in Steele, AL, over 20 years ago.

"We've been working on this project for a little over 8 years now without much success... luckily this past fall, we talked to the right landowner at the right time," explains Southeastern Climbers Coalition president Brad McLeod. "We have 120 days to raise all the funds, so we're teaming up with Rock/Creek and Chaco to make that happen."

Chad Wykle, Chaco Sandals sales rep and long-time defender of climbing access, elaborates: "As soon as we found out about this project, both Chaco and Rock/Creek literally jumped at the chance to work again with the SCC. Chaco as a company, has had a long 20 year history of making incredible footwear for the outdoor consumer. In that 20 years, we have also been committed to the core, to protecting and preserving our natural resources."

Rock/Creek co-owner and Signal Mountain resident Dawson Wheeler explains why Rock/Creek would take on a project like this: "Rock/Creek has taken a position a number of years ago that we want to leave a legacy behind. What we want to be able to look back to is our neighbors. 'How did we impact our neighbors and how did we impact our community at large? ' and you can look back and go, 'See this area; Chaco paid for this area to be here.' This is building ownership and it's also what we should do."

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer based in Chattanooga, TN. Rock/Creek was named 2009 Online Retailer of the Year by Backpacker Magazine and SNEWS and was listed as a Top 25 Retailer by Outdoor Business for 2008 and 2009. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, travel and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association. For related articles on Rock/Creek, visit www.rockcreek.com/media/.

###

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:47 AM | Comments (0)

Rock/Creek's Two North Shore Location Now LEED Certified

Chattanooga, TN (April 8, 2009) -- The Two North Shore shopping center has officially been approved to be Chattanooga's first LEED Certified retail development, officials said.

The consultant team from Energy Ace noted that Two North Shore is one of the first developments of its kind in the state of Tennessee.

Meleah Smith of Two North Shore said, "This historic accomplishment basically means that Two North Shore has been created from the ground up with the goal of making our community environment more sustainable, pure and enjoyable. Based on each particular sustainable and renewable element of the development, the United States Green Building Council is now finalizing how high a level Two North Shore's certification will reach."

Rock/Creek's Mark McKnight said, "Rock/Creek wants to look back at a practical history of commitment, a legacy of conservation and community development, and we believe that Two North Shore fits in with those principles. It's built on what used to be an industrial wasteland, and the interventions that have been done actually reduce the property's environmental impact. We're collecting rainwater instead of creating more runoff and we're re-using materials instead of relying on all virgin materials."

In keeping with Two North Shore's commitment to take care of and enjoy the earth's resources, officials are celebrating their Second Annual Earth Day Festival Saturday, April 25. The day will include free blow-up games, artisans displaying and working on art created from recycled materials, awards for a children's art competition about taking care of the earth, outdoor yoga classes, many wonderful green (earth-friendly or sustainable) products, opportunities to learn about green groups improving the community, the chance to learn about Two North Shore's cutting edge environmentally friendly LEED certified building, lots of organic and locally grown food, education on Village Wolkswagen's low emission vehicles, and more.

"I'm very proud of the shopping center we've created, not only because it is the first LEED certified shopping center in Chattanooga, but because it's so unique," noted Two North Shore property manager Krista Steere. "Shopping at Two North Shore is an experience like nothing else you'll find in Chattanooga.

Two North Shore is located on the north side of the river on Manufacturers Road just over the Market Street or highway 27 bridges from downtown.

Rock/Creek has been operating in its Two North Shore location since October 2, 2007. For photos of the move from the old location, visit Rock/Creek's flickr photostream.

About Rock/Creek

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer based in Chattanooga, TN. Rock/Creek was named 2009 Online Retailer of the Year by Backpacker Magazine and SNEWS and was listed as a Top 25 Retailer by Outdoor Business for 2008 and 2009. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association. For related articles on Rock/Creek, visit www.rockcreek.com/media/.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:26 AM | Comments (0)

April 7, 2009

Join us in the Summer of Steele

Chaco and Rock/Creek - Summer of Steele from Andrew Kornylak on Vimeo.

For over 20 years, the spectacular cliff line near Steele, AL has been closed to climbers.
 
Rock/Creek has committed to raise $5,000 for the acquisition of this climbing area in order to re-open it to the community.

A portion of every Chaco Performance Sandal sale through Earth Day goes toward this goal.

 

Join us in “The Summer of Steele”
Shop for Chaco Sandals > 

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:25 AM | Comments (2)

March 24, 2009

Rock/Creek & La Sportiva Offer You the Chance to "Give Greenback$"

Rock/Creek and La Sportiva N.A. (makers of technical climbing, mountaineering, Mountain Running® and hiking footwear) announce the launch of their Giving Greenback$ campaign. For each pair of La Sportiva Hiking, Mountain Running® and Approach shoes sold at Rock/Creek, La Sportiva will donate a $1 to one of three charitable organizations: the Carbon Fund, The Conservation Alliance and Global Water.

"By partnering with La Sportiva on Giving Greenback$, we will be able to offer our customers the chance to make a difference today, one dollar at a time," says Mark McKnight, from Rock Creek Outfitters. "As a member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, Rock/Creek's number one priority is to provide a quality experience to our consumer base. In addition to offering great products from a great brand, Greenback$ provides our customers the chance to support quality organizations promoting environmental change directly."

La Sportiva's "Giving Greenback$" campaign is a partnership with participating retailers from the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance (GOA), a group which unites independent outdoor retailers and promotes the experience of outdoor enthusiasts across the United States.

As a part of the Greenback$ program, Rock/Creek is now offering such La Sportiva products as the Fireblade, Crosslite, Imogene, Wildcat, Cascade, FC 3.0.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:19 PM | Comments (0)

March 23, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Members & Race Included on 2008 Ultra List

The Ultra List, compiled by Ultrarunning Magazine, includes two Rock/Creek Race Team Members this year. The list highlights the fastest 100 times from each distance, from 50k up to 100 milers. John Brower, one of our newest team members, made the list as the 65th fastest 50 mile time at 6:51. He won the Mississippi 50. In fact, he won that race again this year, as we reported earlier, so we anticipate he will show up on the list again next year.

Kris Whorton made the 100 mile list twice, in #40 for her Vermont run at 22:32, and again for Pinhoti at #66 with a time of 23:25. Awesome job Kris & John!

Also, the Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k made the list as the 10th biggest 50k in North America, with 198 finishers.

Ultrarunning continues to grow as a sport. Rock/Creek added several new ultra-distance trail runs this year, most notably the Lookout Mountain 100k, which will take place again in 2009. Here are some interesting facts from the 2008 ultrarunning season:

503 North American ultra distance races
30,789 finishes by 17,139 individuals (20% growth over 2007)

The race distances break down as follows:
45% of the finishers were 50K races
26% 50 mile
9% 100 mile
3% 100K
The rest were non-standard distances

2,592 of the finishers last year were 100 mile finishers, up by 50% over 2007 and that is without the largest 100 miler (Western States) which was canceled due to fires.

84% of all finishers were on dirt, the rest were hybrid, road or track.

Also of note, the fastest 100 mile time in the world last year was 13:27 by the Greek legond Yiannis Kouros who is 52 years old and the holder of 134 world distance running records. The second fastest time was an hour back. So if you've been thinking about picking up a new sport, it'll take a couple years, but if you're healthy, you're probably not too old to start! Read our article on making the Rock/Creek StumpJump your first 50k and start training today!

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:24 AM | Comments (0)

March 18, 2009

Register by 3/19 for Rock/Creek River Gorge Trail Race!

$25 Registration fee. Synthetic wicking t-shirt from Marmot and socks from SmartWool will be included for free.
NO T-SHIRTS FOR LATE REGISTRANTS.
REGISTER BY MARCH 19TH FOR A T-SHIRT.

2009 Rock/Creek

River Gorge Trail Race

10.2 & 6.5 Mile Options

NEW DATE:
Saturday, March 28, 2009

Proceeds go to The Boonies and The Cumberland Trail Conference for trail maintenance & access.

Packet pick-up starts at 7:00 AM EST
10.2 Race starts at 8:30 AM EST
6.5 mile race starts at 9:00 AM EST

Sign up online at Raceit.com >

VOLUNTEERS Needed as well; simply follow the registration link and select "Volunteer ($0)" 

See who's signed up so far.
Questions? Contact events@rockcreek.com.

These are single track trails with varied terrain. Lots of hills, rocks, and the occasional mild stream crossing. Every participant receives a performance tee shirt.
The race starts and finishes in the Cumberland Trail parking lot, located at Prentice Cooper Wilderness Management Area. The trail footing varies considerably and in some sections are rocky and narrow.

Please support our sponsors:

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:07 AM | Comments (0)

March 16, 2009

Backpacker & SNEWS Retailer of the Year Award

Rock/Creek won 2009 Online Retailer of the Year from Backpacker Magazine & SNEWS. We were thrilled to be selected. The judges mentioned our live chat, community involvement, and the site's appealing design. We want to offer up a big THANK YOU to our customers and friends, who nominated us and submitted comments. For more than 20 years, Rock/Creek has been committed to taking people into the great outdoors. As a company founded by outdoor instructors, we know and love your sport. And we believe that our big, wonderful planet is for everybod.  We're proud that you've chosen to recognize us with this award.. Congrats to all!

Please take a few minutes to nominate

Rock/Creek for the 2010 awards >

From the SNEWS release:

"In July of 2008, SNEWS and Backpacker magazine put out a call for nominations seeking the best retailers in the U.S. The response was overwhelming, with hundreds of votes coming in from reps, retailers themselves (naturally) and customers. In fact, the best nomination forms came from customers who typically praised the retailers and shared stories of excellent customer service as each lobbied passionately for their choice for best retailer. Over 100 stores received nominations.

"The slate of finalists, determined in the first round of voting, was presented to a panel of judges (which included Backpacker magazine and SNEWS editors) who evaluated each store based personal and customer experience, reputation in the outdoor community, quality of customer feedback from the nomination forms received, and overall store excellence based on demonstrated excellence in community involvement, sustainability efforts, store training levels, and more.

The Retailer of the Year overall winner and best-in-class category winners were presented with a plaque suitable for public display in a store, honoring the accomplishment. [...]

"And, yes, this will be an annual award. Our goal is to recognize exemplary retailers, and provide a platform that all specialty outdoor retailers will want to stand on. Nominations for the 2010 SNEWS / Backpacker Retailer of the Year award will be accepted beginning in March at snewsnet.com/roty. Get your customers ready to tell their stories as to why your store deserves the next Retailer of the Year award." -Michael Hodgson
 
We have some amazing peers who won in other categories, including 4 other Grassroots members who were finalists, 2 of which also won in other categories

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:53 AM | Comments (0)

February 23, 2009

Rock/Creek Race Team Sets Course Records at Black Warrior 50k

It should be considered mild to say that the Rock/Creek Race Team ran well this weekend. The Black Warrior 50K on Saturday met the runners with fantastic weather and a sloppy course due to recent rain and what appeared to be many herds of horses shortly thereafter. The mud should have led to some slower times than previous years, but previous years have not seen the likes of the Dials and Matt Sims. Jamie Dial won and broke the old coarse record set by Dewayne Satterfield who has won over 50 ultras, and Wendi Parker-Dial broke Kris Whorton's record by nearly 9 minutes (Kris placed second). The remaining R/C team members that ran the 50K, Natalie Sims and Randy Whorton also placed well. The 25K was dominated by Matt Sims, also breaking the old record.

On Sunday the first ever Southern 6 was run. Johanna Gartman finished first female. Sheridan Ames dominated the men's masters division, and for some unknown reason, Randy and Kris and a few other Sat 50K'ers, Lee and Brenda Simiril decided to give it a go. Kris won the woman's masters division and Randy placed third master. This race should prove to be a most popular event in years to come. Fantastic organization and course.

- Randy Whorton

Posted by Mark McKnight at 5:53 PM | Comments (0)

February 13, 2009

Up to 50% Off Winter Clearance Sale - New Markdowns

	Jackets On Sale > Shirts On Sale > Pants On Sale  > Backpacks & Bags On Sale > Shoes & Sandals On Sale  > Accessories On Sale >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:28 AM | Comments (0)

Telluride MountainFilm on Tour in Chattanooga

What: Telluride MountainFilm on Tour. Consisting of seven to eleven videos from the Telluride MountainFilm Festival.

When: Thursday, February 26. Expo 7 p.m. :: Movie 7:30 p.m.

Where: Chattanooga Theatre Centre

Cost: $10 at the door

Who: Ticket sales to benefit Southeastern Climbing Coalition, Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association, and Appalachian Voices.

More About Telluride Mountainfilm on Tour: The Mountainfilm on Tour is dedicated to educating and inspiring audiences about issues that matter, cultures worth exploring, environments worth preserving, and conversations worth sustaining.

"Mountainfilm on Tour inspires us - it informs us; it challenges us; it makes us laugh; it even makes us cry; it makes us mad as hell and, above all, it shows us the power of film to change the world."

1st Annual Telluride Mountainfilm on Tour in Chattanooga Trailer from Sam Silvey on Vimeo.

In 2000, the Mountainfilm in Telluride festival embarked on a new journey - Mountainfilm on Tour. Each year, a selection of films from the international film festival are taken on the road to reach audiences who otherwise wouldn't have a chance to experience the festival. Those films display themes of adventure, mountaineering, remarkable personalities and important environmental and social messages.

For more information about the three non-profit organizations that we are benefiting, please visit their websites.

Click Here for Seclimbers.org
Click Here for Sorba.org
Click Here for AppVoices.org

This event was made possible by the Weldon F. Osborne Foundation and the sponsors listed on this page. Thank you very much for your help!

For more information on this event, or if you are interested in sponsoring this event, email Sam Silvey at samsilvey@lookoutdoornews.com.

To get more info about MountainFilm on Tour, visit MountainFilmonTour.com

Posted by Mark McKnight at 8:13 AM | Comments (0)

February 12, 2009

Rock/Creek Launches New END Road & Water Shoes

PORTLAND, Ore. -- February 4, 2009 -- END Footwear, a performance footwear company focused on sustainability, launches its second season with a complete line of innovative road running and water shoes for Spring 2009, adding to its early introduction of trail running and light hiking footwear in Fall 2008. With this announcement, END now has almost 100 retail doors with orders placed for Spring 2009 in the U.S. and Canada, including major online distribution.

"We are excited and proud to be one of the first END Footwear retailers selling the entire performance line covering road, water, trail, and everything in between," said Mark McKnight, Marketing Director for RockCreek.com. "The time is right for performance brands to consider the environment prior to all other business factors. END's innovative designs, materials and brand philosophy is exactly what is needed to push the industry forward."

The END Footwear Spring 2009 line: END adds three new styles for men (two road running and one water) and four new styles for women (three road running and one water). END continues pushing the industry with more recycled materials, improved sourcing, less waste, and a return to craftsmanship in the development and manufacturing process.

Women specific last and platform: END's road running shoes for women are built specifically for her narrower and lower volume foot shape, unique body structure and running biomechanics. A man's shoe simply does not work as well for women.

What is a water shoe, you ask? "I designed our new water shoes specifically for running through streams, pounding a creek bed and jumping ocean waves", says Andrew Estey, END Creative Engine and CEO, "I encourage owners of our new Women's LOL (Laugh Out Loud) and Men's WOW (Walk On Water) to leave their socks at home!" Designed on our Trail Running Platform, END strategically placed drain ports in the midsole and outsole to allow water to flow out and the uppers to dry quickly.

END Footwear initially showcased its full line at The Running Event last November and at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market in January. The brand was recently invited to exhibit at the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance Early Buying Show in June. "It's a privilege for any brand to be offered these opportunities. Being invited to [such] shows so early in our history is very exciting. [Retailers like those in the] Grassroots Outdoor Alliance are the cream of the crop of American retailers - I hope that this is the beginning of a fruitful partnership for all parties," says Jay Peery, Director of U.S. Sales.

About END (environmentally neutral design)
Founded in 2007 by award-winning shoe designer Andrew Estey, END questions every component of design to minimize the environmental footprint of its products. END is an outside footwear company that has built a culture around forward motion and doing more with less. As a catalyst for change in running footwear, END was profiled in the Runner's World November 2008 "Green Issue" as an industry leader for changing the way footwear is designed and manufactured. To download a copy of this article, please visit: www.endfootwear.com/resources/public/downloads/pdf/RW1108_green.pdf.

###

Check out: http://www.rockcreek.com/end/

Iconic Style, Performance and Responsibility.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:13 AM | Comments (0)

February 3, 2009

Rock/Creek Named Online Retailer of the Year

Rock/Creek just won Online Retailer of the Year from Backpacker Magazine & SNEWS. We just got back from Winter OR, and while we were there Michael Hodgson of SNEWS presented us with a nice plaque recognizing the achievement.

We were thrilled to be selected. The judges mentioned our live chat, community involvement, and the site's appealing design. Thanks to you, our customers and friends, who voted and submitted your comments. We really feel lucky to be in an industry that cares about quality and integrity. We have some amazing peers who won in other categories, including 4 other Grassroots members who were finalists, 2 of which also won in other categories. Congrats to all!

From the SNEWS release:

In July of 2008, SNEWS and Backpacker magazine put out a call for nominations seeking the best retailers in the U.S. The response was overwhelming, with hundreds of votes coming in from reps, retailers themselves (naturally) and customers. In fact, the best nomination forms came from customers who typically praised the retailers and shared stories of excellent customer service as each lobbied passionately for their choice for best retailer. Over 100 stores received nominations.

The slate of finalists, determined in the first round of voting, was presented to a panel of judges (which included Backpacker magazine and SNEWS editors) who evaluated each store based personal and customer experience, reputation in the outdoor community, quality of customer feedback from the nomination forms received, and overall store excellence based on demonstrated excellence in community involvement, sustainability efforts, store training levels, and more.

The Retailer of the Year overall winner and best-in-class category winners were presented with a plaque suitable for public display in a store, honoring the accomplishment. [...]

And, yes, this will be an annual award. Our goal is to recognize exemplary retailers, and provide a platform that all specialty outdoor retailers will want to stand on. Nominations for the 2010 SNEWS / Backpacker Retailer of the Year award will be accepted beginning in March at snewsnet.com/roty. Get your customers ready to tell their stories as to why your store deserves the next Retailer of the Year award. -Michael Hodgson [Full article (login required)]

Learn more about Rock/Creek >
See what Werner Paddles has to say about the award >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:55 PM | Comments (0)

Rock/Creek Profiled in OR Daily Magazine

Check it out! OR Daily magazine featured Rock/Creek during the recent OR Winter Market show. The article speaks to our community involvement and trail building efforts through the Triple Crown and the Rock/Creek Trail Series.

You can read Rock/Creek's full profile online on the Daily Digest blog.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:17 PM | Comments (0)

January 19, 2009

New Look for the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance

If you've never been to the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance web site, now's the time to check it out; they've just launched their new look. I have to say it's very well done, and am again impressed with the creative wizardry of Widgets & Stone studio here in Chattanooga. They were the geniuses behind the Rock/Creek rebranding project, and they were fun to work with for that project as well as this one.

If you're not familiar with the mission of the organization, here it is:

Grassroots Outdoor Alliance unites independent outdoor retailers as a strong voice to protect and promote the experience of outdoor enthusiasts across the United States. We enable access to best business practices for our retail members, to the best equipment and apparel brands for the public, and to the backcountry for all.

Our retail members are seventy-plus stores working together to create a national network or promotion, access and information. We uphold the highest standards of financial stability and reliability in vendor relations. We are intimately involved in the development of local economies, communities, customer bases, events, education and initiatives related to the enhancement and enjoyment of outdoor experiences.

Our vendor partners offer the most reliable and evolutionary products available in outdoor gear and apparel. They are collaborative and open to participating in events, education and marketing based on regional and local engagement of sport and fashion. They are committed to sport, to outdoor recreation and to improving the lives and lived environments of loyal customers across the United States.

Our Grassroots' Shared Values:

Local shops for local outdoor enthusiasts.

Market attention for performance-oriented, evolutionary products.

Sharing access and insight into local markets with the best vendors or outdoor equipment and apparel.

Long-term environmental good for the great outdoors on local, national and global levels.

Check out the site for trip and event updates, gear reviews, and more >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:32 AM | Comments (0)

January 15, 2009

$500 Arc'Teryx Shopping Spree!

Sign up for our Newsletter
For a Chance to WIN a
$500 Arc'Teryx Shopping Spree!

Package good for any product currenly in stock from Arc'Teryx.

Join our email list and you'll automatically be entered to win. You'll also be the first to know about upcoming sales and subscriber-only discounts. Winners will be notified via email and must have a U.S. mailing address to which prizes can be delivered.

Already a subscriber? No problem!
You can still enter the drawing. Just enter your email address here, update your subscription, and you will be entered into the contest.

Sign up now for the $500 Arc'Teryx Shopping Spree >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:40 PM | Comments (0)

January 8, 2009

Rock/Creek Donates $2,000 to Signal Mountain Cross Country Team

Today Rock/Creek announces a $2,000 donation to Signal Mountain High School's Cross Country team. The donation came from money raised at the 7th Annual Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k Trail Race, which took place the first weekend of October. The money will be used to purchase timing equipment for the team, which will in turn allow the school to host events on the trails adjacent to their property. "The beautiful surroundings on Signal Mountain will truly be showcased by opportunities provided by Rock/Creek, and we look forward to hosting races and having more student participation as excitement about our program continues to grow," explains school principal Eddie Gravitte.

The StumpJump race raised a total of $9,000, with $3,500 going to the Cumberland Trail Conference (CTC), $3,500 to the Wilderness Trail Running Association (The Boonies), and the remainder for this gift. The CTC administers and has constructed the Cumberland Trial, which runs right behind the High School. The Boonies helps facilitate the Rock/Creek Trail Series races through volunteer work as well as trail building and maintenance. The StumpJump takes place on the trail, starting and finishing at the new High School. In addition, the Cross Country team uses the trails for training. These three groups have formed a healthy partnership that ensures the vitality of trails on Signal Mountain and elsewhere.

Rock/Creek also has provided sponsorship throughout this inaugural season. As Les Hegwood, the team's coach, explains, "Rock/Creek and our team have formed a tight partnership in which the kids on my team have been outfitted from head to toe with some of the greatest technical trail running apparel around. They have assisted in hosting the StumpJump 50K, a race included in the Rock/Creek Trail Series, and will have the finest racing clock and timing equipment around all because of the generous monetary gifts from Rock/Creek." Rock/Creek provided wicking technical t-shirts from Mountain Hardwear, along with running hats and visors for the team.

The cross country program has seen a strong start in its inaugural year. Hegwood elaborates: "As I reflect on our inaugral cross country season in which the boys earned a trip to the state meet- having finished as runners up in the region- one phrase comes to mind: 'taking off.' I saw the kids surpass personal best after personal best and really come into their own as runners this season. Without the support of Rock/Creek and the great people associated with the team, our season would not have been half the success it was."

Dawson Wheeler, co-owner of Rock/Creek and a Baylor graduate, presented the $2,000 check to Hegwood, and shared his enthusiasm for the High School: "Although I went to Baylor and this is a brand new school, I'm thrilled to support these guys because they're my neighbors and they're doing so much to raise the profile of Signal Mountain's wild spaces. Tennessee ranks #44 in spending on education, and as obesity and poor health are on the rise, it's becoming increasingly important to include outdoor recreation as a part of public education. Public-private partnerships are a proven way to help increase the quality of education for our youth."

Whorton echoed the enthusiasm of Wheeler and Hegwood, pointing to the difficulty of the trails on Signal Mountain as a factor in the team's success: "By training on these challenging and beautiful trails, these runners are building a strong base that will allow them to compete with the best runners in the state. I think Signal Mountain High School will quickly earn a reputation for being a very tough team to beat, and once we complete their course, only the bravest high schools will show up for meets here."

For more information on Signal Mountain High School:
http://www.signalmountainhighschool.com/

For more information on the Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k:
http://www.rockcreek.com/stumpjump/

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to enacting positive change in the community and for our environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association.

###

Posted by Mark McKnight at 1:48 PM | Comments (0)

January 6, 2009

Save Stringer's Ridge

The Times-Free Press had a good article posted up on Christmas day about the work being done here in Chattanooga, Tennessee to help secure Stringer's Ridge as an urban forest and recreational area for public use. The land, a prime 92-acre tract located downtown right behind the new Two North Shore Rock/Creek location, has been up for sale for some time. Developers once proposed a dense residential development that would have chopped the top of the ridge off and destroyed much of the canopy. Public outrage led the developer to abandon that plan, and now the Trust for Public Land (TPL) has been working with the owner, Jimmy Hudson, to acquire the land for public use. TPL has secured $1.9 million for the project, but they need $2.5 million to make the purchase happen. Some plots of land could still be sold to cover the shortfall if necessary.

The T-FP article talked about how the Wilderness Trail Running Association (The Boonies) and the Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association (SORBA) have already talked to TPL's Rick Wood about what to do with the property. Here's an excerpt from the article:

Ultimately, [SORBA] envisions about seven miles of bike trails on the ridge, [Jeffrey Schaarschmidt] said. As for sharing the trails with runners, he said he did not see any difficulties.

Randy Whorton, president of the Wilderness Trail Runners Association, said the groups have started a "single-track alliance" based on the fact that many trails in the area are shared between hikers, bikers and trail runners. He said he could envision a system of trails along the ridge where both bikers and runners could share walkways, while other trails could be individualized for the two groups' needs.

"I think it's going to come out well," he said. "It has to. This is an opportunity to have wilderness right in our downtown."

Larry Zehnder, the city's Parks and Recreation administrator, said Stringer's Ridge offers a prime opportunity because it could offer hiking opportunities to visitors staying in downtown Chattanooga.

"In this case, they could easily take an afternoon walking along the ridge," he said. [See full article online]

If you'd like to make a pledge to the project today, visit the TPL page for Stringer's Ridge >

Photo courtesy Trust for Public Land.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:28 AM | Comments (0)

December 21, 2008

Lookout Mountain 100k & 10k Results

It was a harrowing day full of rain, challenging creek crossings, and brutal climbs on Lookout Mountain for yesterday's 100k & 10k race. We'll have more for you soon, including full race results and photography, but I wanted to go ahead and update everyone on the results.

Click here for 100k results >
Click here for 10k results >

Keep an eye on the Lookout Mountain 100k web page for more information, and I'll post more here on the blog as well as it becomes available. Happy Holidays!

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:56 PM | Comments (0)

December 19, 2008

Final Days of $2 Two Day / $5 Overnight Shipping for Christmas Delivery

Gift Ideas for Her >	Gift Ideas for Him  >	Gift Ideas for Kids >	Gifts for Travelers >
Gifts for Backpackers >	Gifts for Runners >	Gifts for Climbers >	Gifts for Paddlers >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 2:21 PM | Comments (0)

December 17, 2008

UGG Boots Now Available at Rock/Creek

Rock/Creek is excited to announce that we now carry a wide array of men's and women's UGG Boots and shoes. Unfortunately, we are not able to sell them on our rockcreek.com site, but we do have a large selection to choose from in both our brick and mortar stores. If you aren't local to the Chattanooga area and have an idea what UGG Boot you want to purchase, we can help you over the phone. Just call our customer service number and we'll hook you up - 1-888-707-6708. This is a great option for anyone who lives on the East coast and doesn't want to wait two weeks to get their boots, especially during the holiday time period. We ship out of Chattanooga and have some of the fastest delivery times on the East coast.

UGG Boots directs all of their energies to providing a boot that provides luxury, comfort and the highest quality footwear available. They use only the finest materials - the highest quality leather and suedes and of course the world's finest sheepskin. UGG Boot's products fit into your every day life offering you products that are fashionable, comfy and attainable.

Check out which shoes and boots we carry by clicking on these links, then give us a call or come by and visit our stores! 1-888-707-6708

Men's Ascot
Men's Beacon
Men's Classic Short
Men's Miramar
Women's Classic Short
Women's Coquette
Women's Knightsbridge
Women's Kohala
Women's Mayfaire
Women's Sunburst Tall
Women's Swell Tall

Posted by Mark McKnight at 1:11 PM | Comments (0)

December 10, 2008

New Sustainable Shoe Company Pushes the END-velope

Rock/Creek announces that it is one of the first retailers in the country to carry END outdoor, a new line of performance footwear dedicated to minimizing the environmental footprint of shoe manufacturing. Unlike many other footwear companies, END has chosen to rework the design process by focusing on ways to reduce material use while continuing to get the high performance that athletes need. The designs go back to the basics, questioning all unnecessary complexity, which leads to less weight, less complicated seams that can eventually fail, and less glue that has to be used.

END's leading model is the Stumptown, with light hiking and trail running versions. Amazingly light at 8.5, 10, or 12 ounces, these running shoes are some of the lightest on the market. They also have some great sandals.

END just put out a new video on facebook where they go through the factory in China and spell out exactly what they've done to help reduce impact.

Shop for END running shoes, hiking shoes, and sandals at Rock/Creek >

Posted by bradmcallister at 2:39 PM | Comments (0)

November 25, 2008

Heart of Stone Climbing Film Premieres at Rock/Creek

Heart of Stone Climbing Film Premieres at Rock/Creek Friday December 5th

November 25, 2008 (Chattanooga, TN) - Rock/Creek and The Triple Crown Bouldering Series proudly present an exclusive premiere showing of the highly anticipated climbing access film-- Heart of Stone-- a film by Andrew Kornylak and Josh Fowler. Rock/Creek invites the general public to their retail location at Two North Shore in Chattanooga, TN for the premiere. The store will close at 7:00 pm on Friday, December 5th and doors will open at 7:15. The show will start promptly at 7:30 PM EST.

Heart of Stone investigates a critical point in rock climbing history in the southeast, while celebrating the many fantastic rock climbing resources that the Southeast has to offer.

As Kornylak explains, "the film celebrates what I think is the beginning of a golden age of discovery and stewardship of the amazing treasure of rock we have in the Southeast. The grassroots climbing community here is a miraculous mix of activism, generosity and respect for tradition: the Heart of Stone."

After the presentation of the film, acclaimed climbing athletes/activists Tommy Caldwell, Beth Rodden-Caldwell, Lisa Rands, and Kevin Jorgeson will speak with the audience about the current state of climbing access in the southeast and across the country.

It's no mystery that the Southeast holds some of the best rock climbing in the country. From uncountable fields of immaculate sandstone, granite, gneiss and quartzite boulders, to fantastic buttresses of steep, single pitch crags, to valleys filled with giant multi-pitch granite domes, the South simply has it all for the rock climber.

However, unlike the Western United States, most of the land of the Southeast is privately owned, with much of the remaining property being managed by State and National Parks. Rock climbing in the Southeast has become a matter of relationships between the climbing community and land managers.

Historically, climbers as a group have been known to the general public as conservationists...and simply excellent stewards of land. The number of rock climbers participating in the sport has increased dramatically over the last ten years, however. This increase in the number of climbers and the popularity of some of the rock climbing resources has placed a strain on some of the natural environments where climbers recreate, and as a result have placed the relationship between climber and land manager at risk.

Active local non-profit climbing organizations like the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition, the Carolina Climbers' Coalition, and regional activists are struggling to find a common voice for the entire climbing community--a voice that is steeped in the historical tradition of respect for the environment and the private landowner, but also one that advocates a spirit of adventure.

Please join us at the debut of this film at Rock/Creek's Two North Shore location. For directions and more information on our stores, visit: http://www.rockcreek.com/customer_service/locations.asp

A trailer for the film can be viewed online:
http://blog.rockcreek.com/archives/heart_of_stone_a_film_about_climbing_access_in_the_southeast.html

If the link is broken, try:
http://tinyurl.com/5eu24k

For more information on the Triple Crown Bouldering Series, visit:
http://triplecrownbouldering.org/

High-res photography available upon request.

Contact:
Mark McKnight
423.643.1528
mark@rockcreek.com

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to enacting positive change in the community and for our environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association.

###

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:40 PM | Comments (0)

November 21, 2008

Upchuck 50k Trail Race Report & Photos

John Wiygul and John Brower fought hard for the win at this past weekend's Upchuck 50k. Wiygul, from Chattanooga, came in seconds before Brower, a former Chattanoogan living in Jackson, MS. Wiygul captured first after almost five and a half hours of tough trail running. Stephen Smith of Chattanooga took third. Wiygul has raced many of our trail races and will be joining the Rock/Creek race team for 2009.

This first annual (official) Upchuck 50k took place on the Cumberland Trail and was presented by Rock/Creek and The Boonies. We had 23 finishers on this rather difficult course; the cold temperatures and off-and-on rain certainly contributed to the difficulty of the course. Several stream crossings ensured that the runners were going to be wet even before the rain.

Mark took a few photos from the finish line >
Robert took photos on the trail >

See full race results online >

We'll have a full race report from Chad Wamack in the next couple days, but in the mean time I thought I'd share Matt Sims' recollections of the first (much less official) Upchuck:

History of the Upchuck 50k (as told by Matt Sims)
Chad and I run together all the time. I am well aware of his dietary habits, running pace, what he likes to talk about when he runs, etc. This particular day we headed out to run 36 miles of the continuous Cumberland Trail segment that has recently been completed outside the Chattanooga area.

We did the normal car drop off at the "take out", and then shuttled the car a LONG way to the beginning of what would be a very memorable trail for us both. Chad likes to plan the route and is very methodical in what he might need. Lucky for me really, because I am not a good planner and I typically rely on Chad to figure it all out. We decided to run South to North, which now the official Upchuck 50k course runs North to South.

I won't bore you with the detail of the actual trail description and what we saw and how we felt and how many times I stopped to pee, etc. I will simply say, the Cumberland Trail is ridiculously well done. We are really fortunate to have the trail system and to have such a thoughtful group of planners and volunteers to make it happen.

I have gone through times of being very disciplined with what I eat and what I drink. I don't typically get caught up in all the fancy powders that are available today, although certainly I should because I bet I would be a real superstar runner. We do have a couple of really incredible runners in town and they are fanatic about Heed, an electrolyte replacement drink. They put the "hard sell" on Chad and I think Chad bought a couple of gallons of this stuff and probably stock in the company at the same time. So there we are running along with hydration packs. Mine was filled with water and Chad's was filled with Heed. Keep in mind this was the first time he had really used it, which typically isn't the best idea when you are pretty much committing to an all day run. But, oh well. Chad knows what he's doing.

We get about 18 miles into the run when we cross the Hwy 111, Jones Gap Road Crossing. This is unfortunate in some ways because you actually have to run on a bit of pavement to join the next trail segment, but in doing so you run right by a convenient store. Chad and I stopped in there to re-fuel and talk about Nascar with some of the locals.

Chad comes out of the store with a Mountain Dew, Gatorade, Water, Snickers, Cheese Crackers and a Fig Newton. I remember observing his carefully planned out purchase, and I have to admit I was a little jealous. Chad has a "go big or go home" approach to things, so I just figured he would carry what he didn't eat in his pack and eat it as we go. I was wrong. Chad dug in to what I comically refer to as "the last supper".

Off we go and off go the wheels. It took about 3 minutes of running before I heard Chad say, "I don't feel so good". I proceeded to turn around and see this bloated bellied figure start puking all over the place. I ran ahead so I didn't start puking myself. For the next 10+ miles Chad would puke occasionally and then start running again, all the while that Heed was keeping him company.

All in all I had a great run and Chad had a terrible one. It's funny now and I think he thinks so too. Just remember not to get carried away this year at the Jones Gap Road Convenience store.

Learn more about the Upchuck 50k >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:21 AM | Comments (0)

November 17, 2008

21% Off Coupon for our 21st Anniversary!

	Fleece Jackets > 3-in-1 Jackets  > Down & Synthetic Insulated Jackets  > Softshell Jackets > Rain Jackets > Kid's Clothing >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:19 PM | Comments (0)

October 29, 2008

The North Face Customer Appreciation Night

Everyone come check out The North Face Customer Appreciation Night on Thursday, Nov. 6th from 6-8 pm at Rock / Creek Outfitters 2 North Shore location off Manufactures Rd. in North Chattanooga.

The 1st 30 people thru the door will receive a FREE The North Face beanie! Plus, The North Face will be raffling off FREE Jester daypacks and a Rock 22 tent! To top it off, there will be FREE organic finger foods and drinks provided by your local GreenLife grocery.

The North Face factory reps will also be onsite to chat about The North Face gear and swap stories from your latest adventures. Rock / Creek Outfitters will be fully stocked in a wide selection of The North Face apparel, footwear, and equipment to prepare you for your next great outdoor adventure! Don't miss this incredible event!

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:42 AM | Comments (0)

October 13, 2008

$9,000 Raised for Trails at 2008 Rock/Creek StumpJump 50k

Locally-owned outdoor retailer Rock/Creek makes $9,000 donation for trails from the 8th Annual Rock/Creek StumpJump, a 50k and 11 mile trail running race that took place on the Cumberland Trail in Signal Mountain, Tennessee.

October 9, 2008 (Chattanooga, TN) - Rock/Creek today announces a $9,000 donation for trails. The Chattanooga-based retailer raised the money at the 8th Annual Rock/Creek StumpJump this past weekend. $3,500 will go to the Cumberland Trail Conference (CTC) for their ongoing work on the 300-plus-mile long Cumberland Trail. The Trail, still under construction, stretches across the state of Tennessee from Chattanooga to Cumberland Gap.

Another $3,500 will go to The Wilderness Trail Running Association (The Boonies). Their mission is to promote trail running as a cornerstone to optimum health and as an avenue to adventure by focusing on expanding trail access, building new trails, maintaining existing trails, and organizing great trail races. The remaining $2,000 will go to the new Signal Mountain High School Cross Country team for work on their cross country course, which Boonies members will help construct.

The Rock/Creek StumpJump has become one of the largest ultramarathon-distance races in the country. This year's race took place on Saturday, October 4, 2008. Over 200 runners finished the 50k and 170 finished the 11 mile race. Runners came from across the country and the world, with runners representing 25 of the 50 states as well as Micronesia, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Canada.

"Once again we had a great race" said Dawson Wheeler, Signal Mountain resident and co-owner of Rock/Creek: "We were able to raise significant funds this year and we look forward to building many miles of new trails. We could not have had this level of success without generous donations from our sponsors and the hundreds of volunteer hours contributed to the race."

Rock/Creek Race Team members fared well in the 50k race, with team members taking several top spots: John Anderson from Boulder, CO (originally of Signal Mountain) won first place in the 50k. Michael Green came in second. Jaclyn Greenhill won the women's division.

Other top finishers: Kevin Johnson of Ogden, UT finished third; Ryan Mittwede from Ridgeland, MS finished fourth. In the women's division, Abby Zeveloff from Carrboro, NC came in second, Lisa Purul from Panama City Beach, FL took third. Liz Lee of Knoxville, TN took fourth. Masters winners were: Phil Canning of Atlanta, GA; John Cobbs of Birmingham, AL; Tom Remaley of Cosby, TN; Marty Coleman of Marietta, GA.

Rock/Creek employee Deb Jones took first in the female division of the 11 mile race. Race team member Cathi Cannon took fourth.
Other 11 mile finishers included: Mark Lundblad of Swannanoa, NC (Team Inov8) took first. Tom Borschel from Idaho Falls, ID (Team LaSportiva) took second. Third went to local Sam Linhoss. Fourth, Jim Wueste from Atlanta, GA. Casey Malone of Memphis, TN came in as second place female. Lucie Becus from Cincinnati, OH took third.

Before the race, on Friday, October 3, Rock/Creek hosted the general public for a Vendor Fair and served 400 racers and family members for a catered carbo supper at their new store at Two North Shore on Manufacturers' Road. This family-friendly event showcased the race's sponsors and also served as a packet pick-up for racers. In addition, Dr. Charley Cropley from Boulder, Colorado gave a talk on natural foods and healthy nutrition for endurance activities.

Also on Friday live seamstresses worked to turn customers' old cotton t-shirts into sustainable shopping bags through the Icebreaker and Rock/Creek Bagging Cotton program. The promotion continues through the end of the month. Customers are invited to bring their old cotton t-shirts into Rock/Creek's Two North Shore location now through October 31st. Rock/Creek will transform the tee into a reusable shopping bag and customers will receive $10 off an Icebreaker pure merino top of their choice. For more details visit http://www.rockcreek.com/icebreaker/baggingcotton.asp

Sponsors of the race include SmartWool, Mountain Hardwear, Salomon, Hammer Nutrition, La Sportiva, The North Face, Greenlife Grocery, Vasque, Deuter, KEEN, CamelBak, Southern Spring Water, Inov8 and Trail Runner Magazine. Next year's event will take place on October 3, 2009.

Photography available to the media by request.

For registration information, results and photography, please visit http://www.rockcreek.com/stumpjump/

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to enacting positive change in the community and for our environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association.

###

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:59 AM | Comments (0)

September 29, 2008

Your Turn to Be a Gear Expert - Write a Product Review Today!

 
It's your turn to be the gear expert! Help other customers decide what to get, and share your experience with the world. Write a review and you'll be entered to WIN one of 5 Rock/Creek Gift Cards for $100.

The more high-quality reviews you write, the better your chance of winning.

All you have to do is follow the "rate it" link from your review request email, or click the "write a review" link from any product page. You will see a page custom-tailored to the product you are reviewing.

Tips for writing great reviews:

  1)  Focus on specific details about the product and how it performed
  2)  Explain how the product is useful to you
  3)  Include images and videos if you have them
  4)  Don't mention any personally identifiable information

It's easy to write a review. Simply go to any product page, look for the "write a review" text link, and follow the instructions.

Get started today with some of our best sellers:

Chaco Z/2 Unaweep Performance Sandals (Women's)

Chaco Z/2 Unaweep Performance Sandals (Men's)

The North Face Denali Fleece Jacket (Women's)

The North Face Denali Fleece Jacket (Girls)

Here's what the product rating area looks like on each product page:



Details: Write a review for a chance to win one of (5) $100 gift cards good for anything in stock at rockcreek.com. All approved reviews will count as one entry in the contest. Winners will be selected by Rock/Creek staff based on the quality of reviews. All decisions are final and the sole decision of Rock/Creek. Notified by January 31, 2009. You must have a US address for shipping. Reviews are moderated by PowerReviews and must be approved for publication by Rock/Creek. Reviews will be published by Rock/Creek as well as on Buzzillions.com.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 1:55 PM | Comments (0)

September 26, 2008

We're Bagging Cotton!

Transform Your Old Cotton T-shirts into Reusable Shopping Bags!

We’re bagging cotton at Rock/Creek! Rock/Creek has teamed with Icebreaker, the New Zealand-based edgy, environmentally-driven leader in outdoor apparel made from pure merino wool to transform old cotton t-shirts into sustainable shopping bags. We’re inviting you to bring old cotton t-shirts into Rock/Creek’s Two North Shore location now through October 31st. Rock/Creek will transform the tee into a reusable shopping bag and you’ll receive $10 off an Icebreaker pure merino top of their choice.

“Who would have thought that soggy, shapeless cotton t-shirts would make such perfect nature-friendly reusable bags?” says Deb Boswell, marketing manager of Icebreaker. She added, “Similarly, many people don’t realize how perfect Icebreaker’s merino wool is in all types of weather. We hope Chattanoogans come in to ‘bag cotton’ and try on one of our ultra-fine merino t-shirts. They’ll feel for themselves why merino wool is a magic, all-season fiber.”

Come see a live seamstress transforming t-shirts into bags, and browse our beautiful collections of clothing made from merino wool.

The promotion runs now through October 31, 2008. Customers dropping t-shirts off at the store before Oct. 1st can pick them up on Oct 3rd. After the Oct 3rd the sewing will be done once a week and will be available for pickup the Friday after drop off.

Live seamstress in the store: Saturday, Oct 3, Noon-6PM

Rock/Creek at Two North Shore 301 Manufacturers Road Chattanooga, TN 37405

CONTACT Rock/Creek (423)-265-5969

About Icebreaker

Founded in 1994 and based in Wellington, New Zealand, Icebreaker created an entirely new clothing category: merino outdoor clothing. The hand-picked merino wool, procured directly from the country’s Southern Alps, is transformed through the best technology, ethical manufacturing and environmentally sound practices into every Icebreaker garment. The Travel, Outdoor and Underwear apparel collections use ten distinct pure merino fabrics that silky soft, insulate beautifully, breath effectively, and don’t itch or hold odor. Now the largest merino apparel company in the world, Icebreaker is currently available at nearly 2000 stores in 24 countries throughout Europe, Asia, Australasia, and North America. For access to our online pressroom where you’ll find images and press releases contact onlinepress@icebreaker.com.

About Rock/Creek Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. With a dedicated staff of outdoor enthusiasts and gear experts, Rock/Creek offers only the very best outdoor apparel and equipment from top brands like Icebreaker and others to ensure that customers are comfortable and safe in the outdoors.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 1:45 PM | Comments (0)

September 15, 2008

Urban Rocks Gym Under Construction

Indoor climbing is coming to Chattanooga with the construction of Urban Rocks Gym. About a month ago, ground was broken for Chattanooga's first full service rock climbing facility. The gym, designed by Rockwerx Inc., will have 35 ft heights and 10,000 square feet of varying climbing terrain. With close attention to customer service, ever changing routes and a helpful staff, Urban Rocks hopes to become a great tool for bringing the Chattanooga climbing scene together.

For the last two years Chris Gibson and Rebecca Robran have been steadily working on bringing indoor climbing to the city. "It's been a long, tiring process with raising our own capitol, planning, and finding the right bank for financing, but we're very excited to see this project finally break ground" Gibson explains.

The facility will be located off of Amnicola Hwy. and will house over 10,000 sq. feet of climbing wall surface, which will include lead climbing, top ropes, top out bouldering, a teaching/kids wall, and a training area. The gym will cater to all abilities, from the professional climber to the complete novice. "We really hope to help bring the climbing community together, and to aid in fostering a really positive scene in the community of climbers and non climbers alike" Robran explains.

Climbing is among the fastest growing sports in the country. Anyone who has been climbing for the last ten years can attest to the remarkable surge in popularity and one of the fundamental focuses of the facility will be education. A wide variety of specialized classes ranging from Intro to climbing, to Leading, to Self Rescue, will be offered. Gibson hopes for the gym to contribute to the overall safety and experience level of the Chattanooga climbing community: "One of our goals is to provide ample opportunity for beginners to learn how to climb safely and smartly with others"

The gym has a projected opening date of mid-December with a grand opening scheduled for the beginning of the New Year. It's shaping up to be a great event with vendors, slide shows and raffles. Check out the website Urbanrocksgym.com for updates as the gym progresses.

The diagram at the top of this page shows the overview of the gym plan created by Rockwerx. The photo shows another Rockwerx-designed gym in Boston. We'll post more details here as they come, so stay tuned.

Shop at Rock/Creek for climbing gear, outdoor clothing, and travel gear >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:19 AM | Comments (1)

August 22, 2008

Cumberland Trail Conference Seeking Volunteers

The Cumberland Trail Conference is seeking volunteers to help build a bridge spanning Big Possum Creek.

August 28-September 4: bridge building Big Possum Creek. During this time period, volunteers are needed to bring in lumber, rebar, concrete, and the tools needed to build the bridge foundations. I have several people that have offered to help get the material back to the bridge site on 4-wheelers. Once the material is at the site, volunteers are needed to construct the foundations. Camping will be available at the Possum Creek campground on Lee Pike. The CTC will pay for the campsites and will provide meals (it will be camp food, sorry nothing fancy). If you are interested in helping with this first step in building the Big Possum Creek bridge contact Amanda Leamon at Amanda.Leamon@frontiernet.net.

The Cumberland Trail Conference is a 501.3c whose mission is to "build, maintain, provide activities on and promote the Cumberland Trail, a scenic trail along the Cumberland Plateau between Chattanooga and Cumberland Gap, in order to help preserve the historical and cultural heritage of Tennessee, conserve natural resources, provide educational and recreational opportunities and connect local communities.

Visit the Cumberland Trail Conference website for more information and maps of the Cumberland Trail.

Posted by bradmcallister at 11:38 AM | Comments (0)

August 8, 2008

Backpack Sale Ends Soon! Save 10-30% Today

Day Pack & Bookbag Sale

Backpacking Pack Sale (Medium-Capacity)

Hydration Pack Sale

Travel Bag Sale

 

Messenger Bag & Accessory Sale

Backpacking Pack (High-Capacity) Sale

Child Carrier Pack Sale

Lumbar Pack Sale

 

Ski Pack Sale

Ultra-Light Fast Pack Sale

Climbing Pack Sale

Bike Bag Sale

Casual Bag Sale

Camera Bag Sale

Hydration Bladder Sale

Pack Accessory Sale

Other Camping Essentials:  Cookware  |  Camp Chairs & Hammocks  |  First Aid & Safety

Food  |  Knives & Tools  |  Maps & Software  |  Pet Gear  |  Sleeping Pads  |  Stoves & Lanterns

Stuff Sacks  |  Sunglasses  |  Trekking Poles  |  Water Treatment

 

---

 

---

Limited Edition Chaco Sandals !


Limited Edition Z/2 Sandals from Chaco.
$20 of your purchase goes directly to access.
Check it out today >

---

Photo courtesy Marmot. c. Ace Kvale.

If you’ve been waiting to pick up a backpack for school, a day pack for those Fall hikes, or even a large travel or backpacking pack, now’s the time! Now until August 14, 2008, RockCreek.com is offering our entire line of backpacks and bags at 15-30% off. We have the highest-quality packs available to keep you comfortable no matter how many books you have to lug around or how long you’ll be in the backcountry. RockCreek stocks only the highest-quality packs from brands like The North Face, Deuter, Dakine, Arc’Teryx, Marmot, Gregory, and CamelBak.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:33 AM | Comments (0)

August 1, 2008

20% Off Chacos Through August 2nd

donate shoes, get 20% off Chacos Rock/Creek and Chaco invite you to swap your old (but clean) shoes, sport sandals or boots for a 20% discount on new Chaco Sandals. We’ll donate your old shoes to those in need and keep them out of landfills. how to give back… 1)  Use coupon code “CHACORECYCLE08” at checkout by August 2, 2008 to Save 20% on your new Chacos.    shop for Chacos >       2)  When you receive your Chacos, put your old shoes back in the box and send them to us by August 31. 3)  Enjoy your summer with a new pair of Chacos and the knowledge that you’ve made a difference in someone’s life. shop Chaco >

The original value of your donated shoes should be roughly equivalent to that of your new pair of Chacos. Coupon does not apply to Chacos already on sale, but we’d still love to have your shoes to send. 

where will my donated shoes go?

Footwear donated from the 2008 campaign will support the elimination of Hookworm anemia in Sub-Saharan African villages.

It has been estimated that as many as 1 in 3 people in Sub-Saharan Africa are affected by Hookworm anemia. The hookworm, a soil-born parasite, enters through bare feet and resides in the small intestine of its host. Within the intestine the hookworm feeds off its host supply. If the parasitic condition is left untreated, severe anemia and malnutrition will result. The condition will slowly advance until a blood transfusion becomes necessary for the infective individual’s survival.

In developing nations the cost of transfusion is often prohibitive and risky. Prevention, through the use of protective footwear, has been proven to prevent hookworm anemia.

Through the 2007 Chaco recycling program an entire village in Uganda was outfitted with shoes—a simple solution that completely eliminated hookworm anemia in the village.

In previous years the program has also supported communities in India and Nepal. Chaco’s program has also impacted communities closer to home. After hurricane Rita devastated the Gulf Coast region in September 2005, Chaco and participating retailers collected over 400 pairs of recycled footwear to distribute to displaced hurricane victims in affected areas of Louisiana.

Thanks to all those who donated to the 2007 program. This was our best year so far, with well over 100 pair of shoes recycled.

thank you for making a difference!

shop Chaco >

Please Send Your Donated Shoes to:

Rock/Creek
CHACO RECYCLE PROGRAM
4250 Benton Drive, Suite D
Chattanooga, TN 37406

1-888-707-6709
info@rockcreek.com

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:51 AM | Comments (0)

July 23, 2008

Trail Running Article in Chattanooga's Times Free Press.

Is trail running catching on in Chattanooga? You betcha it is! Chattanooga's local paper, The Times Free Press, seems to agree. Last week the newspaper released a great article on the trail running scene in Chattanooga. The article has some superb tips for those just getting into the sport, including the importance of owning a good pair of trail running shoes. Below is a blurb from the article. If you are interested in the entire piece you can find it on the Times Free Press website.

From the Times Free Press, July 17th 2008.

With some of the world's best -- and most accessible -- running trails in Chattanooga, it's no surprise the city's trail running community is taking off.

"I think people are starting to get out and say, 'This is really great stuff,'" said Randy Whorton, president of Chattanooga's Wilderness Trail Running Association.
This year, Rock/Creek Outfitters and the Wilderness Trail Running Association are sponsoring more local trail races than ever.

Four new races were added, including a 50k event billed as "the most difficult trail race anywhere in the country."

"It is beyond challenging," Mr. Whorton said. "It's in the middle of nowhere on a section of the Cumberland Trail that hardly gets any traffic, with hard climbs, plenty of roots and rocks and stream crossings."

Nationally, trail races and long-distance "ultra running" races are the fastest-growing activities among runners, said Mr. Whorton, a 47-year-old vice president of Chattanooga-based Earthscapes.

Today, "the Boonies," as the local Wilderness Trail Running Association is known, has about 65 members. Ninety-eight people subscribe to its message board.

The Scenic City's advantage, and its challenge, is a wide range of trails literally out many residents' back doors.

Posted by bradmcallister at 2:23 PM | Comments (0)

July 18, 2008

Chaco and Rock/Creek Partner in Footwear Recycling Program. Donations to Support Developing Countries.

Take a step against poverty. Trade in your old but usable clean shoes for a 20% discount on a new pair of Chaco footwear. Your trade becomes a donation as Rock/Creek and Chaco will send the shoes to third-world communities in need. The shoes can be donated online or in any of Rock/Creek's Chattanooga, TN stores. Customers can donate any brand or model of shoe, as long as it is a clean, usable, and well constructed piece of footwear. Online instructions for donation can be found on Rock/Creek's Chaco Donation page. The program will begin on July 18th and continues until August 2nd.

This year marks the forth consecutive year of Chaco's recycling campaign. Since the start of the program in 2004, Chaco and the company's recycling program partners have distributed nearly 15,000 pairs of sandals to poverty stricken areas of the globe. Rock/Creek joined the recycling partnership in 2005 and since then the store's loyal customers have donated more than 320 pairs of old shoes. This support makes Rock/Creek one of Chaco's top donating partners.

"We're pleased that Rock/Creek will again apply their passion and commitment to our recycled shoe promotion. Our joint effort to provide shoes to those in need can and has made a difference to thousands of people." said Ann Ellinger, Sr. Marketing Coordinator for Chaco.

SHOES SAVE LIVES

Footwear donated from the 2008 campaign will support the elimination of Hookworm anemia in Sub-Saharan African villages. It has been estimated that as many as 1 in 3 people in Sub-Saharan Africa are affected by Hookworm anemia. The hookworm, a soil-born parasite, enters through bare feet and resides in the small intestine of its host. If the parasitic condition is left untreated, severe anemia and malnutrition will result. The condition will slowly advance until a blood transfusion becomes necessary for the infective individual's survival. In developing nations the cost of transfusion is often prohibitive and risky. Prevention, through the use of protective footwear, has been proven to prevent hookworm anemia. Through the 2007 Chaco recycling program an entire village in Uganda was outfitted with shoes--a simple solution that completely eliminated hookworm anemia in the village.

In previous years the program has supported communities in India and Nepal. Chaco's program has also impacted communities closer to home. After Hurricane Rita devastated the Gulf Coast region in September 2005, Chaco and participating retailers collected over 400 pairs of footwear and distributed them to displaced hurricane victims in affected areas of Louisiana.

"Sustainability typically is defined as the long term balance between the environment, the economy and the needs of society. By offering customers the ability to recycle old footwear through donations to developing countries, and purchase a new pair of shoes at a discounted price, the program touches on all three corners of sustainability. This is certainly a model program for all companies considering sustainability initiatives," said Brad McAllister, Sustainability Adviser for Rock/Creek.

Rock/Creek and Chaco have partnered several times in the past on business oriented sustainability initiatives. In April, Rock/Creek was approached by Chaco and the Arbor Day Foundation to run a special tree planting campaign. During National Arbor Day weekend, a tree was donated for every pair of Chaco sandals purchased at Rock/Creek. Over 300 trees were planted through the partnership. The promotion, dubbed "Buy One, Get One Tree," ultimately supported the planting of over 800 trees.

Additionally, Rock/Creek and Chaco are currently offering limited edition Chaco Z2 sandals. $20 from the purchase of each sandal supports low impact, responsible climbing access through donation to the Southeast Climbers Coalition (SCC). To date, the sandal purchase program has raised over $20,000 for climbing access, including a $10,000 donation to the SCC in 2007. The limited edition sandals can be purchased at any one of Rock/Creek's Chattanooga stores or online. More information on the limited edition Chaco sandals can be found online at Rock/Creek.com

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association.

Posted by bradmcallister at 11:06 AM | Comments (0)

July 16, 2008

Rock and Ice, Outside Magazines Give Chattanooga Top Honors

Psst...hey...can you keep a secret?

Two of the nation's top outdoor magazines rank Chattanooga high on their top ten city lists. How high? Very high. Outside ranks Chattanooga #2 on their Ten Top 21st Century Renaissance Towns, and Rock and Ice gives Chattanooga number one honors as America's top climbing town. The Outside article cites a revival that began more than 30 years ago when Chattanooga was embarrassed by Walter Cronkite's prime time label of the city as America's most polluted. Today that revival continues with the development of an comprehensive urban park system, a unique urban tree planting initiative and the development of hundreds of miles of mountain biking, running and hiking trails in the surrounding mountains.

This is the second time Outside has honored Chattanooga as one of America's top cities. In 2001, the magazine included Chattanooga on its list of America's Top 10 Outdoor Towns.

Rock and Ice's top nod goes to Chattanooga and claims the city is a "kick-ass rockin' place to be a climber." The article cites "bullet-hard sandstone, plenty of new-route potential, and friendly and inviting folk everywhere," as the reasons that Chattanooga tops their list.

Great news, Right! But keep it quite, we don't want the masses to flock on the news that we have known all along. Both issue are on our shelves. Come in and check them out!

Rock and Ice's Top Climbing Towns.

1. Chattanooga, Tennessee


2. Boise, Idaho


3. Ogden, Utah


4. South Lake Tahoe, California


5. Leavenworth, Washington


6. New Paltz, New York


7. Favetteville, West Virginia


8. Vancouver, British Columbia


9. Flagstaff, Arizona


10. Boone, North Carolina

Outside Magazine's Best Towns, 2008

1. Washington, D.C.


2. Chattanooga, Tennessee


3. Ogden, Utah


4. Portsmouth, New Hampshire


5. Tacoma, Washington


6. Ithaca, New York


7. Louisville, Kentucky


8. Eureka, California


9. Crested Butte, Colorado


10. Columbia, Missouri

Posted by bradmcallister at 5:04 PM | Comments (0)

July 14, 2008

American Podiatric Medical Association Recommends Chaco

The staff at Rock/Creek have all been wearing Chaco sandals and Chaco flip-flops for years. We adore them. We're enamored by them. They're like Mama's mac and cheese; comfort food for our feet. There is no other universally worn brand of sandal or flip-flop at Rock/Creek than Chaco. Part of the reason is the comfort and style, another part is the knowledge that by wearing Chacos we are supporting a well-constructed product produced by a company with a deep environmental conscience. Then there is a third benefit that is literally felt deep within the core of us all - the health benefits associated with wearing a sturdy, supportive pair of Chacos. Recently the foremost association of foot professionals, the American Podiatric Medical Association, released their "Ten Tips to Foil a Flip-Flop Fiasco." In the article the association warned about the common problems associated with summertime flip-flip use. They also recommended ways to mitigate those problems and still live in summertime flip-flop comfort. One of their top flip-flop do's, "look for flip-flops that hold APMA's Seal of Acceptance, such as Chaco's Flip Collection." Yes, we've been validated! The entire article is listed below.

Also, keep an eye out for the upcoming announcement of Chaco and Rock/Creek's 2008 sandal recycling program. Bring in your old, but clean, shoes, boots or sandals from July 18th to August 2nd and your old pair will be donated to poverty stricken communities throughout the world. Did I mention that you will also get 20% off the purchase of a new pair of Chacos. The program has had great results in the past and we hope to better them this year.

TEN TIPS TO FOIL A 'FLIP-FLOP FIASCO' FROM THE AMERICAN PODIATRIC MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
Podiatrists give advice on shopping for and wearing flip-flops

Bethesda, MD -Summertime immediately evokes care-free images of backyard barbeques, relaxing poolside and sporting the ultimate "beach-bum" accessory - the flip-flop. But before jumping into any pair of stylish flip-flops, it's important to realize that wearing them can easily lead to a variety of serious foot injuries.

"There are many flip-flops on the market that offer little to nothing in terms of arch support, stability and shock absorption," said Dr. Ross Taubman, President of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). "Foot-related injuries due to flip-flop wear have been on the rise. Opting to wear a pair of cheaply constructed flip-flops puts the wearer at risk for injuries such as arch pain, tendinitis and sprained ankles."
Pay attention to the following 10 flip-flop "do's" and "don'ts" to avoid falling victim to a "flip-flop fiasco:"

Flip-Flop Do's:

-Do look for a flip-flop that is made of high-quality, soft leather. This material, unlike plastic or foam, will minimize the potential for blisters and other kinds of irritation.

-Do look for flip-flops that hold APMA's Seal of Acceptance, such as Chaco's Flip Collection and Wolky's Serenity, part of their Zen Collection. Evaluated by a committee of APMA podiatric physicians, these products are shown to allow for the most normal foot function and promote quality foot health. For more foot-friendly choices, visit APMA's Seal page.

-Do gently bend the flip-flop from end to end, ensuring that it bends naturally at the ball of the foot. Shoes should never fold in half.

-Do wear a sturdy pair of flip-flops when walking around a public pool, at the beach, in hotel rooms and in locker room areas. Walking barefoot can expose foot soles to plantar warts and athlete's foot.

-Do ensure that your foot doesn't hang off of the edge of the flip-flop.

Flip-Flop Don'ts:

-Don't re-wear flip-flops year after year. Thoroughly inspect older flip-flops for wear. If they show signs of severe wear in the soles, it's time to discard them.

-Don't ignore irritation between toes, where the toe thong fits - this can lead to blisters and even worse irritation.

-Don't wear flip-flops while walking long distances. Even the sturdiest flip-flop offers little in terms of shock absorption and arch support.

-Don't do yard work while wearing flip-flops. Always wear a shoe that fully protects the foot when doing outside activities like mowing the lawn or using a weed-eater.

-Don't ever play sports in flip-flops. You can easily twist your foot or ankle, leading to sprains or breaks.

About the APMA
Founded in 1912, the American Podiatric Medical Association is the nation's leading professional society for foot and ankle specialists. The association has component societies in 53 locations in the U.S. and its territories and a membership of close to 11,500 doctors of podiatric medicine. For free foot health information, visit www.apma.org.

Posted by bradmcallister at 10:25 AM | Comments (0)

July 9, 2008

Rock/Creek & Greenlife present a River Conservation Night at the IMAX Center, July 17th

Rock/Creek and Greenlife is proud to present a special private viewing of the IMAX film, Grand Canyon Adventure 3D, River at Risk. The event is scheduled for Thursday, July 17th. Proceeds from the night will benefit the Tennessee Aquarium's conservation programs. In addition to full admission film, tickets include complementary Atlanta brewed Sweetwater Beer and hors d'oeuvres from local grocer Greenlife. The event begins at 6:30 with a welcome reception in the IMAX Theater's lobby . The theater is located at 201 Chestnut Street. The private showing of the 3D film will follow the reception. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Rock/Creek's North Shore location and at neighboring Greenlife Grocery. Both are located in the Two North Shore shopping plaza on Manufacturers Road.

The spectacular film, Grand Canyon Adventure 3D, is featured worldwide in select IMAX 3D Theaters and is produced by Macgillivray Freeman, the world's largest distributer of giant screen films. The film showcases the stunning aerials and unique action sequences that millions of Freeman followers have come to adore. Like other Freeman Films, Grand Canyon Adventure pulls the viewer into the heart of one of the world's richest and most awe inspiring ecosystems. For this particular film, the viewer is introduced to some of the perils that face the Earth's most fragile life support system, its great rivers.

Once one of the world's mightiest rivers, the Colorado is currently under threat of overdevelopment and unsustainable resource use. Today agriculture and development intercept the the river before its natural journey to the Gulf of California is complete. The once expansive Colorado River Delta is now only a trickle and supports but a fraction of the diverse plant and animal species it once did. Grand Canyon Adventure follows environmentalist Robert F. Kennedy Jr., anthropologist and author Wade Davis, and their two daughters as they navigate the waters of the Colorado River through the 277 mile long Grand Canyon. The goal: to bring awareness to the treats that the Colorado River, and many of the world's other rivers, face. In addition to the visual and auditory thrills that viewers have come to expect from IMAX films, audiences will learn how they can help threated rivers through conservation and restoration projects. With impassioned narration by Robert Redford and music by multi-Grammy Award winning Dave Mathews Band, the film promises to stimulate the environmental fervor within outdoor recreational users, conservationists and film fanatics of all types.


This special event is a unique opportunity for Chattanoogan residents to simultaneously support both the Tennessee and Colorado Rivers. Area residents are well familiar with the value of protecting the life sustaining capabilities of America's grandest rivers. News stories, such as Atlanta's drought and current water crisis, highlight this fact. In addition to its role as a major attraction for both Chattanoogan residents and visiting tourists, the Tennessee Aquarium serves as one of the region's most effective education and conservation based organizations. For more information on the efforts of the aquarium and how you can get involved locally, check out the Tennessee Aquarium online.

Rock/Creek and Greenlife's private event is scheduled for one night only; don't miss this chance to support the majestic rivers that make your life, and the life of all other species on this planet, possible. Tickets are limited, so be sure to stop by Rock/Creek or Greenlife to guarantee your entry into the film today.

Posted by bradmcallister at 4:25 PM | Comments (2)

June 25, 2008

Rock/Creek Raises Money for Access with Chaco Z/2's & Marmot Driclime Jackets

Building on three previously successful campaigns, Rock/Creek and Chaco will donate $20 to Southeastern climbing access for every pair of Limited Edition Chaco Z/2 sandals sold at any Rock/Creek store or online at www.rockcreek.com.

"I've never worked with a retailer more focused on the conservation and preservation of natural space. Rather than talk about what needs to be done, Rock/Creek puts their money where their mouth is and accomplishes amazing things," said Brian Scranton, Director of Marketing for Chaco Footwear. To date, the sandal purchase program has raised over $20,000 for climbing access, including a $10,000 donation to the Southeastern Climbers Coalition (SCC) in 2007. The 2007 campaign was unexpectedly successful; ultimately three different versions of the sandal were released to meet demand. This year, Rock/Creek and Chaco hope to better last year's unprecedented success. The generated proceeds will again be donated directly the the SCC's efforts to protect climbing access in the southeast.

The initial 2004 campaign raised $3,000 toward the purchase of Laurel Knob, a multi-pitch granite dome in North Carolina. Proceeds from 2005, a total of $8,000, went to closing the note on the Boat Rock bouldering area. Located within Atlanta city limits, Boat Rock provides daily recreational activity for many of Atlanta's urban residents. The area was threatened by development until the SCC purchase was made possible by concerned climbers along with corporate sponsors like Rock/Creek and Chaco.

This year's Chacos are available in two colors: Espresso for men and Blue Ridge for women. They have gone on sale and are currently in stock at Rock/Creek locations in Chattanooga and online at http://www.rockcreek.com/chacos/limited-edition.asp

Rock/Creek and Chaco have a long history of cooperative support for outdoor recreation and conservation. In April, Rock/Creek was approached by Chaco and the Arbor Day Foundation to run a special tree planting campaign. During National Arbor Day weekend, a tree was donated for every pair of Chaco sandals purchased at Rock/Creek. Over 300 trees were planted through Rock/Creek. The promotion, dubbed "Buy One, Get One Tree," ultimately supported the planting of over 800 trees.

This year, Rock/Creek will expand their Triple Crown program to include a Marmot jacket with proceeds benefiting the Triple Crown. The jacket, Marmot's popular DriClime Windshirt, will be embroidered on the sleeve with the Triple Crown Bouldering Series logo and will be offered online at a special price. Like the special edition Chaco Z/2 sandals, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Southeastern Climbers Coalition.

"At the 2007 Triple Crown Bouldering series we offered these jackets to the judges and raffled off a handful" said Chad Wykle, co-founder of the Triple Crown Bouldering series, former Rock/Creek employee, and current Chaco regional rep. "They were immensely popular and many people came up to me after the event asking where they could get one. We figured this was reason enough to test the waters and offer the product to Rock/Creek's loyal customers and create revenue for climbing access"

Only 65 of the jackets are available and in-stock at Rock/Creek's Chattanooga stores. They can be purchased online at http://www.rockcreek.com/marmot/driclime-windshirt.asp. The jacket will be available in four colors; lead/flint or stellar blue/tempest for men and black or blue sky/celestial for women.

About the Triple Crown Bouldering Series:

The Triple Crown Bouldering Series consists of events on the first weekend of October, November, and December. The series begins at Hound Ears in Boone, North Carolina. In November, the series will move to Horse Pens 40 in Steele Alabama. The finale will take place at Stone Fort (formally Little Rock City), Chattanooga, TN. More information about the series can be found at http://www.triplecrownbouldering.org/

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association.

Rock/Creek and Keen Donate $4,000 for City of Chattanooga Kayak Purchases after Fire
Rock/Creek and Patagonia announce $3100 Grant for LuLa Lake Land Trust
$3300 Raised for the Boonies at 2nd Annual Scenic City Marathon Presented By Rock/Creek and Vasque
Join Rock/Creek And The AHS for National Trails Day June 7 2008
$20,000 Raised For Access At 2007 Triple Crown Bouldering Series
Rock/Creek and Local Outdoor Enthusiasts Improve Sunset Park
$4000 Raised At Rock/Creek Stump Jump
Recycle Your Old Rope

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:07 PM | Comments (0)

June 17, 2008

Rock/Creek and Keen Donate $4,000 for City of Chattanooga Kayak Purchases after Fire

After a devastating fire that destroyed the City of Chattanooga's kayak fleet, local retailer Rock/Creek and footwear manufacturer Keen put together a matching grant for $4000 to help the City begin to rebuild their kayaking program.

Sometimes the unexpected happens, and when it does, it is the unexpected partnerships that play an important role in rebuilding a community. Such was the case in April of this year when an electrical fire in the "Red Barn" at Greenway Farms turned into a big loss of outdoor equipment for Outdoor Chattanooga's OutVenture program. The Saturday morning fire set the barn ablaze and with it went Outdoor Chattanooga's OutVenture kayak fleet. When the fire was finally controlled a total of 31 boats plus essential equipment such as paddles, personal flotation devices (PFDs) and helmets, were lost.

After the fire, fears began to surface about having to cancel the 2008 kayaking and canoing programs. That fear was becoming a reality when local business leaders from throughout Chattanooga offered a helping hand. After hearing of the fire, Rock/Creek co-owner Dawson Wheeler contacted Outdoor Chattanooga and offered to donate $2,000 to help replenish the supply of equipment. As the extent of the disaster started to be uncovered, it was clear that Rock/Creek's donation would need to be matched by another company to ensure that the summer's programs could continue. Rock/Creek approached Keen, a footwear company based in Portland, OR, about matching the donation to the program. Joining forces with a footwear company to replenish lost kayaking equipment may seem like an odd partnership, but Keen's staple shoe, the Venice H2 Sandal, is highly popular with many professional boaters. Immediately, Keen agreed to match Rock/Creek's $2,000 donation, increasing the combined donation from the two companies to $4,000. To prevent any loss of time, and with the kayaking season quickly approaching, Rock/Creek also offered to allow Outdoor Chattanooga and OutVenture to borrow their rental kayaks and kayaking equipment.

Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield thanked Rock/Creek and Keen: "The community's response to the loss at Greenway Farms has been overwhelming. On behalf of the City, thank you for the generous donation and continued support of the OutVenture program." Dawson Wheeler echoed the mayor's sentiment, thanking Keen and others from the local community for their help: "While we are happy to do what we can for, more importantly we want to serve as a model for other organizations and individuals who will hopefully find a place in their budget to support low-impact outdoor recreation initiatives such as OutVenture."

Rock/Creek and OutVenture's relationship did not begin with this year's unfortunate incident. Rock/Creek employees have often assisted instructors in kayaking and canoing classes hosted by OutVenture. Classes that teach individuals how to roll an overturned kayak are held on Tuesday nights. For more information, contact Outdoor Chattanooga's OutVenture at (423) 842-6629.

Outdoor Chattanoooga was formed in 2004 after a series of public meetings hosted by the city. The OutVenture program followed shortly after and specializes in community outreach programs that aim to get people active in the local environment. One such program, that was on the verge of being canceled after the fire, is the Rapid Learning Whitewater Kayak Camp that teaches Chattanooga's youth the fundamentals of safe and enjoyable whitewater paddling. OutVenture offers both day and weekend trips. More information about OutVenture's programs can be found at http://www.outdoorchattanooga.com/

Rock/Creek has been working closely with Chattanooga's outdoor community for more than 20 years. In addition to the Company's efforts with public entities such as Outdoor Chattanooga, Rock/Creek has also awarded grants to locally run private groups. Recently, Rock/Creek, in conjunction with Patagonia, donated $3,100 to the Lula Lake Land Trust. This donation supports an expanding trail network that will ultimately link lands protected by the land trust with Cloudland Canyon State Park. Rock/Creek aims to support responsible, minimal impact access to the outdoor world that will help to educate tomorrow's stewards of the planet. Rock/Creek's environmental statement can be read at http://www.rockcreek.com/customer_service/environmental.asp.

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 9:01 AM | Comments (0)

June 16, 2008

Our Youngest Race Team Member, Johanna Gartman

Rock/Creek is proud to announce our latest Race Team member, Johanna Gartman. At only 15 years old, she is also our youngest member. Please join us in welcoming her to the team!

School: Homeschool
Age: 15

Current Team Affiliations:
Scenic City Aquatic Club, USAT Southeast Youth Elite Team

Races/Accomplishments:

2007
Ironkids National Champion (Phoenix,AZ )
USAT National Ranking (Age Group 9th)
USAT Southeast Regional Ranking (Age Group 2nd)
Ironkids Atlanta (1st overall female)
Sports Barn Triathlon (2nd overall female/ age group winner)
River Gorge Trail Run —10k ( 2nd overall female)
Clemson Triathlon SC State Championship (age group winner/9th overall)
Orlando Triathlon (age group winner/6th overall female)
Grandman Triathlon Mobile,AL(age group winner/8th overall female)
Scenic City Triathlon (age group winner/4th overall female)
Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon (age group winner)

2006
USA Triathlon Grand Prix Series National Champion
USAT Youth National Championship (5th place) Wiscconsin Dells, WI

“I would like to gain more experience in trail running, and I feel that being a part of the team could provide insight for maturing that goal. It would be a privilege for me to be a part of a team whose members are such intense endurance athletes.”



Read more about Rock/Creek’s sponsored athletes online >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:40 AM | Comments (0)

May 19, 2008

Media Alert: Rock/Creek and Vasque Present The Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, benefiting The Boonies

Media Alert
May 20, 2008

Contact:
Jamie Sanders, Race Director
423.505.0310 (mobile)
stumpjump50k@rockcreek.com

Mark McKnight, Marketing Director, Rock/Creek
423.643.1528 (office)
423.596.1573 (mobile)
mark@rockcreek.com

Rock/Creek and Vasque Present The Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, benefiting The Boonies

What: Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon presented by Rock/Creek & Vasque, benefiting The Boonies
Where: TVA Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility
When: Saturday, May 24, 2008, 8:00 a.m race start
Who: Rock/Creek, Vasque Footwear, The Boonies (Wilderness Trail Running Association)

Rock/Creek and Vasque proudly present the second annual Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, taking place at TVA's Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility on the trails developed by SORBA-Chattanooga. Both of these trail runs begin at 8:00 a.m. Race-day registration and check-in will open at 6:45 a.m. The race begins and ends at the Laurel Point Parking Lot.

The Scenic City Trail Marathon will set the bench for a state record in trail running. The trails at Raccoon will be fast and forgiving, making for a great leisurely race for new trail runners or a full-on speed fest for those in the hunt for the first state record for a trail race.

Now part of the Vasque North American Trail Tour, this year's Scenic City Trail Marathon & 1/2 Marathon promises to be an incredible experience. Sponsored by Rock/Creek, Vasque, Mountain Hardwear, and SmartWool. Participants will receive a technical Wicked Tee from Mountain Hardwear. Prizes and raffles will be provided as well.

Proceeds from the race benefit the trail building efforts of the Wilderness Trail Running Association (a.k.a. "The Boonies"). Specifically, the proceeds from this race will help build the trail for the Lookout Mountain 100k, taking place on December 20, 2008 along with a 10k.

For more information visit:
http://www.rockcreek.com/trailmarathon/

Photo Opportunities:
Well over 100 trail runners from around the United States will be competing on a beautiful course with sweeping views of the TN River Gorge and the Raccoon Mountain Reservoir.

Interview Opportunities:
Jamie Sanders, Race Director
Randy Whorton, President, The Boonies

Map to TVA's Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility (via Google Maps):
http://tinyurl.com/6dh9tu
When you get to the TVA Road, you follow it up to the gates to the facility. From there you will see signs directing you to Laurel Point.

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association.

##

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:49 PM | Comments (0)

April 30, 2008

Rock/Creek's New Brand Identity Receives First Place in AIGA Design Competition

Memphis, TN- April 2008: Rock/Creek and Widgets & Stone announce victory at the 2008 American Institute of Graphic Arts TEN Show.

Coming out on top with a Gold Medal, Widgets & Stone won the Brand Identity category with Rock/Creek. Under Design Director Paul Rustand, designers Matt Greenwell, Brad Dicharry, and Joseph Shipp of Widgets & Stone came up with the current “Rock/Creek” brand that has proven to be successful. Caleb Ludwick served as Strategist/Writer on the project, Mark McKnight contributed photography, and Steve West contributed to production.

The American Institute of Graphic Arts, or AIGA, is the nationally-recognized professional association for design. AIGA describes itself as "the place design professionals turn to first to exchange ideas and information, participate in critical analysis and research and advance education and ethical practice. AIGA sets the national agenda for the role of design in its economic, social, political, cultural and creative contexts."

AIGA Tennessee for the past three years has held a competition for all AIGA members in the state called the TEN Show. This friendly competition allows designers and creators to come together to exchange ideas and show off their work. All entries in the TEN Show must follow strict guidelines including: describing the client, the challenge presented to them, the solution to the challenge, and the results of the project, all in 500 words or less.

Among the many AIGA members, Widgets & Stone, a Chattanoooga-based design firm, entered their branding work for Rock/Creek as one of this year’s projects. The two companies have been working diligently for over two years to launch a comprehensive re-branding campaign that has positioned Rock/Creek's brick-and-mortar stores as well as its e-commerce Web site for future growth within the outdoor retail industry. The challenge presented to Widgets & Stone was to develop a brand that conveys Rock/Creek's status as a company with over 20 years of brick and mortar experience, a company that has inspired customers to take adventures both on and off the trail. Rock/Creek focuses on getting its customers into the outdoors safely and comfortably. Widgets & Stone emphasized Rock/Creek not only as a retail company that sells apparel and equipment, but also as a company that focuses on the human experiences that surround these products.

Mark McKnight, Marketing Director at Rock/Creek, praises the project: “All of the feedback we’ve had on the identity has been positive. The reaction within our vendor community has been the biggest source of validation for me personally— we have been told by several vendors that there simply are no other specialty retailers doing anything like this.”

Paul Rustand expresses his satisfaction with the project as well: “For Widgets & Stone the Rock/Creek brand development project was wonderful on many levels. It was an honor and a privilege to be able to work with the great individuals who lead such an established and successful local business. The scope of the project —- to redesign everything from the logo to the signage to the advertising to the packaging -— is what every design studio seeks. In addition to their forward-thinking approach to the brand identity, Rock/Creek had an impeccable grasp of their target demographics, which proved invaluable to the design process. And last -— but certainly not least -— the mutual respect that we experienced throughout the course of the project between client and designer was fantastic.”

For more about AIGA's TEN Show, visit http://tenshow.org/

Photos of the Rock/Creek entry are available courtesy the Memphis AIGA chapter:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/13545114@N06/2378081267/in/set-72157604333176314/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/13545114@N06/2378919490/in/set-72157604333176314/

About Rock/Creek:

Rock/Creek, member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, is an independent specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve public access to the backcountry. Rock/Creek supports worthy nonprofits such as the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition and the Wilderness Trail Running Association. Upcoming events include the Scenic City Trail Marathon & Half Marathon, to take place on Raccoon Mountain in Chattanooga, TN. For more information, visit: http://www.rockcreek.com/trailmarathon/

For more information about Rock/Creek, visit http://rockcreek.com/

About Widgets & Stone:

Widgets & Stone is committed to using design to serve the needs of clients - while exploring the many ways the design process can inspire individuals and enlighten communities. As a full service studio, Widgets & Stone sees a project from conception to production. For over 12 years the firm has created a wide variety of design work: logos/trademarks, brand development, company materials, web sites, print promotions, books and packaging.

For more information about Widgets & Stone visit http://widgetsandstone.com/

###

Posted by Mark McKnight at 1:08 PM | Comments (0)

February 5, 2008

Kathy Johns Joins Race Team

Kathy Johns

Occupation:  Medical Assistant

Favorite trail nourishment: Apple Cinnamon Hammer Gel

Favorite Run:  Prentice Cooper Wilderness Area is absolutely unbeatable!  The single-track trail has a variety of terrain and breathtaking views that make it, in my opinion, the epitome of trail running at its best.  It is a personal favorite no matter how many times I do it; a familiar and beautiful playground of forest, rock, and creek crossings.   

What I Like Most about Running:  Pushing myself past any limit I thought possible, mentally and physically.  Moments of both pure exhilaration and dire pain have their place in endurance trail running and I love to see what the human body is capable of achieving when pushed to its seemingly maximum threshold.  Not to mention, you get to explore vast areas of beautiful wilderness that most people never have the pleasure of experiencing. 

Tips for other Runners:  "Figure out what motivates you.  Use it to your advantage.  For me, working towards events alleviates the monotony of daily training.  The love of a long Saturday morning run keeps me motivated to never lose my base mileage.  Running is mostly mental.  At any point in time, your mind and emotions can work for or against you.  Get familiar with your mental patterns and learn how to harness them as a tool to keep yourself in the game."

Significant Races and Other Achievements:
Rock/Creek River Gorge Race
Mountain Mist 50K
NOC/Subaru 21 mile Endurance Run
Rock/Creek StumpJump 50K
Nashville Country Music Marathon, Half Marathon, and other various road races.
Training runs that were often harder than any event!

Goals for ’08:  
New personal bests.  More events.  Getting stronger, faster, and wiser.  Enjoying the ability to just get out there!

RELATED ARTICLES:

Meet all the Rock/Creek Race Team members >

Shop for Hydration Packs in our Gear Store
Make the RockCreek.com StumpJump 50K Your First Ultra Marathon
Get details on the RockCreek.com StumpJump 50K & 11 Mile Trail Race

Team Rock Creek Outfitters Takes 2nd in Goldrush 24
Team Rock Creek Outfitters Wins Again at the Challenge 4
Team Rock Creek Pulls a Hat Trick Victory at Fall Creek Falls
Life is (Not Always) An Adventure Race: The StumpJump 50K
There's no 'I' in Adventure Race Team
Why I Love Adventure Racing...
How to Train for a 50K
Cotton vs Synthetic

Subscribe to our blog feed for updates on the Rock/Creek Race Team, new articles, events and races, as well as notification of sales.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 12:44 PM

January 17, 2008

John Anderson Joins Rock/Creek Race Team

We'd like to welcome our latest Rock/Creek Race team member, John Anderson. John is an old friend of Rock/Creek and we're happy to have him on the team. Here's his bio:

Occupation: Medical Student at the University of Colorado School of Medicine

Why I run:  I grew up tramping around the mountains of Tennessee, and the enthusiasm and direction finding skills of my running friends and brother resulted in some unintentional ultras. 

"There is a root communication shared in miles spent in the woods and a seemingly paradoxical camaraderie among runners that comes from individual suffering and elation. I find ultraraces to be a family affair."

Conversations, jokes, and even silent support abound in every race I've run (although the jokes seem to get funnier around mile 70, which is good for me because the only people that seem to laugh at my jokes are ultrarunners and very small children). Even the periods of solitary miles allow time to connect with the inner being through the pain of the body.  Essentially, running is simple, running is primal and running is fun.

Favorite Runs: Grand Lake Loop Rocky Mtn National Park--a 36ish mile loop up and over the Continental Divide, dropping into Grand Lake for a swim at halfway. Also, running in Prentice-Cooper in the fall.

Tips:  Ultras are long.  You will have a rough stretch, and your success is dependent on how you react because it will eventually pass.  You have to train how you race--eat the same foods, run in the dark, run alone, run with a pacer, run through creeks, etc.  Embrace the places where both your body and mind go because they truly are unique and indescribable.

Races/Accomplishments:
6th overall 2007 Wasatch Front 100 23:15
2nd overall 2007 Spring Desert Ultra 50 7:47
2nd overall 2007 Old Pueblo 50 7:29
4th overall 2007 Ashland Mountain Climb
Farthest Projectile Vomiting--2007 Hardrock 100
plus lots of other high finishes in the last three years in different races (Zane Grey, Leadville, StumpJump, etc.)

More about the Rock/Creek Race Team >
Sign up for the Rock/Creek River Gorge Trail Race in March >
Read about our epic Rock/Creek StumpJump 50K race coming up in October >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:59 PM

Cathi Cannon Joins Rock/Creek Race Team

We'd like to welcome Cathi Cannon, a freelance Graphic Designer here in Chattanooga, TN, to the Rock/Creek Race Team. She's been a friend and training partner for a while now, and has raced several Rock/Creek races in the past. Here's her bio:

Favorite Run or Race: Cumberland Trail. With over 300 miles to explore, you can't get bored! Perhaps my favorite segment is along the North Chick segment, which we call the Blue Hole Run - approx 5 miles to a pristine swimming hole that is tucked away from all the day trippers. It is the perfect place to relax in the sun and swim with the fish.

What I like most about running:Being able to immerse myself in wilderness... even if it is just 15 minutes from downtown! The solitude and peacefulness wipes away any stress from the work week.

Tips for other runners: When new runners hear about my adventures, they think it is entirely out of reach. Hey - we all start somewhere! When I signed up for my first marathon, I could barely get through 4 miles. Sure it takes a lot of time to work up to 2-day races, but nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it. Just understand that it takes time, commitment and patience to reach your goals. Believe in yourself and go for it!

Races/Significant Accomplishments:
Rock/Creek River Gorge Race
Stump Jump 50K Trail Run
Mtn. Mist 50K
Black Mountain Marathon
Shut-In Ridge Trail Run
Hogpen Hillclimb 17k
Overmountain Extreme Adventure Race (30hr)
Checkpoint Zero Adventure Race (30 hr)
Smoky Mountain Adventure Race (40hr)
North Georgia Adventure Race (30 hr)
+ countless shorter adv races, mtn & road bike races

Coming up in 2008:
Mt. Mitchell Challenge - 40 miler
River Gorge 10miler, Scenic City Marathon, StumpJump 50k
CPZ, OME, NGAR Adv Races
Ultra O-Gaine (a 12hr orienteering race)
* race reports, training stories, and pictures can be found on www.bebackonmonday.com

More about the Rock/Creek Race Team >
Sign up for the Rock/Creek River Gorge Trail Race in March >
Read about our epic Rock/Creek StumpJump 50K race coming up in October >

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:25 AM

January 11, 2008

Rock/Creek Builds Expanded Web Presence With Coptix

Chattanooga, TN- Rock/Creek has launched a redesigned e-commerce web site, developed by Chattanooga's leading integrated design company, Coptix, Inc. The company has also named Coptix as its Interactive Agency of Record.

As a retailer of outdoor equipment and apparel, Rock/Creek sees the internet as an opportunity for robust, effective sales. The company has a long history of participation in the active life of Chattanooga and the larger outdoor community. Rock/Creek organizes grassroots community improvements, educates customers on safety and how to get the most out of their backcountry experience, and promotes environmentally responsible recreation and stewardship of our environment.

"We're delighted to roll out this latest version of our website," said Rock/Creek Marketing Director Mark McKnight. "The new look and the functionality Coptix has developed builds on our 20-year brick and mortar heritage and responds to what we've learned from our online customers over the years."

Continue reading "Rock/Creek Builds Expanded Web Presence With Coptix"

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:48 PM

October 11, 2007

$4000 Raised at Rock/Creek StumpJump

400 Ultrarunners attend 7th Annual Rock/Creek StumpJump 50K, contend with difficult course, record heat, and raise $4000 for the Cumberland Trail Conference.

Contact:
Mark McKnight
423.266.8200 ext. 1113
mark@rockcreek.com

Chattanooga, TN, October 10, 2007 -- Four hundred trail running enthusiasts weathered unseasonably hot and humid conditions at Saturday's Rock/Creek StumpJump 50K. The 7th annual race sold out months in advance. "Despite the heat, this was probably the best StumpJump we've put on so far," said Race Director Jamie Sanders; "We were happy that it sold out early and that we were able to expand this year's race to accommodate increased demand." The heat did take it's toll, with over 20 runners pulling out of the race. It's doubtful that anyone set a personal record this year. Matt Karzen, veteran ultrarunner and Rock/Creek Race Team member, summed it up well: "StumpJump 2007 was the toughest 50K I've run. The topography makes it a challenge, but the unseasonably warm temps this year made wise pacing and diligent hydration key. I didn't do either very well, and boy did I pay for it. Luckily the beauty of the course, including ridgetop views of the Tennessee river, martian-like rock formations and shadowy drainages out of Narnia, kept me smiling. I had a great time and I'll be back for sure."

Continue reading "$4000 Raised at Rock/Creek StumpJump"

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:02 AM

September 6, 2007

Bikes in Tunnel! Now You Can Bike to Work.

The new "Bikes in Tunnel" warning lights were officially turned on this morning, just about an hour ago, by Chattanooga's traffic engineers. These signs have been in the works for a long time, and it's nice to see them operational. This is another important step in making Chattanooga a bicycle-friendly city. The lights are posted outside the Missionary Ridge and Stringer's Ridge Tunnels, two places that have been rather dangerous for cyclists because of the low visibility inside the tunnels and the often excessive speed of motorists through these narrow passages. Thanks to Philip Pugliese, the city's bicycle coordinator, along with all the folks at Outdoor Chattanooga and the City for making this happen.

Now there's no excuse not to bike to work this Friday. Here's the info:

Ride Your Bike & Join Us for Free Breakfast at our new location on the Walnut Street Square - South End of the Walnut Street Bridge. 7:00-8:30 am!

Choose your own route using our website map or ride with us meeting at:

* Tennessee Riverpark - Fishing Pier Entrance (7:00 AM)
* The Incline Railway - Rear Parking Lot (7:00 AM)
* Red Bank - A group may start forming at the Duck Pond (7:00 AM)
* Signal Mountain / Mountain Creek Road - Anyone interested in meeting at base of mountain?

Contact: Philip Pugliese, ppugliese@outdoorchattanooga.com

Read the full press release after the break...

Read more entries on biking in Chattanooga:

Wanna Bike to Work Tomorrow?

Bike to Riverbend

Ready for the Tour de Georgia? We Are.

Pick up a Rock/Creek Specialized Water Bottle >

... or a Rock/Creek Hincapie Jersey >

Continue reading "Bikes in Tunnel! Now You Can Bike to Work."

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:24 AM

January 18, 2007

Grassroots- Piton Post #3

A bit late, but in case you haven't seen the third in the series of Piton posts about the new Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, here it is.

All Grassroots members are all involved in environmental causes individually but as a group we have been able to join the Conservation Alliance to help distribute grants of significantly larger amounts of money, up to $70K, to conservation groups throughout North America. [Read full article]

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:31 PM

January 4, 2007

Grassroots Post #2 on the Piton

Turns out yesterday's post on the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance was prescient. The Piton posted the second interview with Dave Matz today. Check it out here:

LINK

One of the most interesting points for me has to do with the impact of specialty retailers, who keep more money in the local economy and have more of a vested interest in the quality of their local environment:

Here is a study that underscores the point we are trying to get across nationally. In 2003 the Civic Economics (a group of economists) did a study in Austin, Texas, comparing two bookstores. One of the stores was a large chain store, the other, an independent, local store.

The study found that every $100 spent at the national store circulated $13 in the Austin economy. The same $100 spent at the local store circulated $45, roughly three times as much, in the Austin economy. (Economic Impact Analysis: A Case Study, Civic Economics, Austin, TX 2002, free for download at www.civiceconomics.com ).

Read the full article on thePiton.com

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:11 AM

January 3, 2007

Grassroots Outdoor Alliance

RockCreek has been a part of the group formerly known as ROI for many years. The group has recently changed to a more consumer-friendly name (that also happens to sound a lot less like one of our biggest competitors): "The Grassroots Outdoor Alliance." With the name change comes a new focus. Check out this Piton post, where the group's Executive Director, Dave Matz, talks a bit more about the our new direction. There's another interview coming soon, so I'll post that when I see it come out.

LINK: http://www.thepiton.com/2006/12/post_1_on_the_g.html

We want to highlight our members as the local specialty outdoor store with the beta you need. We have the best and most innovative products, the best local knowledge for whatever activity you are pursuing, the knowledge and commitment to preserve our local recreational resources. We support our communities with our events whether they are races, fun participation events, speakers, clinics or charity fund raisers. All these things make us different from big box stores and Grassroots wants to celebrate these specialty stores.

-Mark

Posted by Mark McKnight at 11:08 AM

October 10, 2006

Video of the new Rock/Creek Building

Hey this is really cool... 2 videos from the architect of the new Rock/Creek development.

Thanks go to the architects, River Street Architecture, LLC, for these nifty flyby videos.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 5:38 PM

Press Clipping from new North Shore Rock/Creek development

I've shared a bit about the new Rock/Creek development going in on the North Shore on this blog before.

We just had a great article on the front page of the Business section of today's Chattanooga Times-Free Press. Of course they completely missed the environmental story, which I think is interesting. Perhaps it wasn't mentioned at the groundbreaking, but I'm not sure. The original plans called for a whole suite of environmentally sensitive design elements. I'll post any details I get as they come in.

Click the image below to see the full size article.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 1:52 PM

October 2, 2006

RockCreek.com and Chaco Raise Funds for Access with Custom Sandals

Chaco, Rock Creek Outfitters, and the Triple Crown Bouldering Series team up to help local climbers gain permanent access to one of the premier bouldering areas in the Southeast. Proceeds from custom sandal sales aid in Boat Rock land purchase.

Chattanooga, TN (PRWEB) October 2, 2006 -- Long recognized as major contributors to environmental and outdoor causes, Chaco and Rock Creek Outfitters announce today that they will offer custom Chaco Performance Sandals for purchase during the 2006 Triple Crown Bouldering Series in effort to raise funds to help secure access to one of the prime bouldering areas in the Southeast. A portion of the custom sandal proceeds will be donated to the Southeastern Climbers’ Coalition to help gain permanent access to and ownership of Boat Rock, a woodland area inside the metro of Atlanta with more than a half mile of unique egg shaped granite boulders.

Boat Rock has long been threatened by development, but with continued effort from the SCC and local citizens, the area is now a community park and green space. Currently, $12,000 remains to be paid on the mortgage, and many are working to make the final payments against the note.

In 2005, a similar effort from Chaco, Rock Creek and The Triple Crown raised over $4,000 toward the purchase of Laurel Knob, a 1,200 ft. granite dome in Cashiers Valley located in the Highlands of North Carolina. Once threatened by development, Laurel Knob, renowned as the tallest crag east of the Mississippi River, is now owned by the Carolina Climbers’ Coalition and is open to hiking and rock climbing.

Chaco and Rock Creek Outfitters have quietly gone about the business of gaining and maintaining access to outdoor recreation areas for many years. Chaco, with help from regional outdoor retailers, will put close to $20,000 into direct action causes this year in the Southeast alone.

For every pair of custom Chacos sold, Rock Creek and Chaco will donate $20 toward the purchase of Boat Rock. The custom Chaco Sandals will be available for purchase through Rock Creek Outfitters’ website, RockCreek.com, and displayed at each venue of the Triple Crown Bouldering Series. The three-part series kicks off October 7 at Hound Ears in Boone, NC, moves on to Horse Pens-40 in Steele, AL, and concludes at The Stone Fort in Chattanooga, TN.

About Rock Creek Outfitters:

Rock/Creek Outfitters is a specialty outdoor retailer with over two decades of experience in the Southeast. Along with its online shops, RockCreek.com and ClimbingGear.com, Rock/Creek Outfitters provides quality outdoor clothing and gear for a host of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, trail running, and adventure racing. Rock/Creek is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve access to the backcountry.

About Chaco:

While many businesses focus solely on profits, Chaco seeks to follow the three steppingstones to sustainability: profits, people and the planet. They strive to minimize their environmental impact, better the lives of the people with whom they work and maintain healthy profitability so they can keep their initiatives moving forward. To further support their sustainability initiatives, Chaco donates three percent of after-tax profits to organizations dedicated to caring for people and the planet. They currently support the Conservation Alliance, the Sierra Club, American Whitewater, Leave No Trace, the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance and many others.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 1:34 PM

June 14, 2006

RSS Feeds for this Site

We have officially rolled our RSS Feeds live, and I'd like to provide a little explanation here in case you're not familiar with RSS or Really Simple Syndication.

Step 1: Get an Aggregator

First, you need an RSS aggregator or Firefox browser; these will allow you to save several feeds in one place and every time a feed is updated, the new information appears on your newsreader or on the bookmarks list in Firefox.

If you don't have Firefox, you can get it now. It's free for download. It's a great Web browser and you can set up live bookmarks (RSS Feeds) to show in the sidebar with your other bookmarks.

For Mac OS X users, Vienna has been reccomended. It's an open source program available freely for download.

There are many more aggregators, and you can even use Google's personalized homepage to show feeds. You can add the entire Rock Creek Chronicle with this button:

Step 2: Get Some Stuff to Aggregate!

You can start with the Rock Creek Chronicle Feed. We have Atom XML feeds available in several categories, or you can subscribe to all new posts and you won't miss a beat:

All New Posts:

Sales & Promotions:

Announcements:

Environmental:

Events:

Monthly Contest:

If you have any questions, feel free to contact mark [at] rockcreek.com and I'll do my best to help you out. Enjoy!

Posted by Mark McKnight at 1:56 PM

May 31, 2006

Rock Creek Outfitters Leases Space at Two North Shore

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 28, 2006--CS & Associates, an affiliate of Park Mills Properties 2, LLC, announces that it has now acquired the balance of the land needed to build Two North Shore, a 95,000 square foot mixed use project on Manufacturers Road near US 27, anchored by a new Greenlife Grocery store in the North Shore region of Chattanooga. Park Mills' managing partner, Steve Arnsdorff, announced that Rock Creek Outfitters, locally owned by Dawson Wheeler and Marvin Webb since 1986, has signed a lease to occupy approximately 9,000 square feet right next to the planned new Greenlife Grocery store (27,000 sq. ft.). Steve said "Rock Creek is the perfect compliment to Greenlife Grocery. Greenlife is the benchmark in natural and organic foods in this region and their success has been amazing. Both companies are strong regional businesses that have great business models and they help anchor the retail market in the North Shore area of Chattanooga. We are very bullish regarding residential growth in the immediate area of this development and with the property's regional location near Highway 27, these new stores will better serve their existing and future customers".

Continue reading "Rock Creek Outfitters Leases Space at Two North Shore"

Posted by Meesh Smith at 9:45 AM

May 8, 2006

New Affiliate Program Launched

Do you have a Web site relating to the outdoors? Consider RockCreek.com as a merchant partner. You could earn generous commissions on traffic you send to our site.

RockCreek.com Affiliate Program Details:

- Work with a fun, growing specialty retailer committed to leadership in the outdoor industry.

- Earn commissions of 7-9% on sales you send to us. For expected sales of $10k or more a month, please contact Mark McKnight at mark@ rockcreek.com.

- 120 day cookie duration gives you plenty of time to collect on traffic you send.

- Monthly newsletters, dedicated management, and a blog keep you up to date on promotions and help you maximize earnings from your Web site, blog, or newsletter.

- If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Mark McKnight at mark@ rockcreek.com.

- SIGN UP NOW with CommissionJunction.com!

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:56 PM

April 5, 2006

Legendary Ski Mountaineer Doug Coombs Killed in LaGrave Accident

It saddens us here at Rock/Creek to report that the legendary ski mountaineer Doug Coombs has passed away in a tragic accident while skiing in La Grave. Doug visited us for a slideshow back in November and he was a pleasure to have around. He will be missed.

Doug is survived by his wife Emily and young son David, and the Doug Coombs Memorial Fund will help provide for them during this time of mourning and in their future.

Pistehors.com has more details.

(Photo c. Marmot/ Ace Kvale)

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:18 PM

March 22, 2006

Exodus Recall

Ironically, the very day I post an article from Mountain Hardwear about the new Exodus pack frames, they announce a recall on the hip belts. Good news is only the hip belts are affected and they're sending us new ones to replace the packs we have in stores now.

Apparently there's a defect where the fabric comes together with foam on the pads and the fabric can separate from the pad while you're adjusting the velcro. This shouldn't affect the pack while it's in use, only when you're adjusting it, so if you're reading this from the trail (which I seriously doubt you are) then the pack should be fine as long as you don't adjust the hip belt.

If you've purchased an Exodus pack from RockCreek.com please contact us at 1.888.707.6708 and we'll get you a replacement hip belt as soon as we get them in from Mountain Hardwear.

Despite this little manufacturing hiccup, we're pretty excited about the Exodus system; Mountain Hardwear really thought out of the box on this and came up with a really innovative frame design.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:49 PM

Exodus Test Team to be Recruited

RICHMOND, Ca. (February 1, 2006) – Mountain Hardwear Inc., a leading mountaineering and outdoor equipment and clothing company, announced today that it has partnered with three continental north-south trail organizations to help promote some of the nation’s most cherished long-distance hiking trails. The partnership marks the launch of Mountain Hardwear’s new Exodus Pack line. Exodus Backpacks, which will be available in specialty outdoor stores February 1st, incorporate a revolutionary new frame system that moves with the user’s body, resulting in a comfortable fit, even when hiking on uneven terrain.

Mountain Hardwear has partnered with non-profit organizations affiliated with the most revered long-distance hiking trails: The Appalachian Trail (2,144 miles, from Maine to Georgia); The Continental Divide Trail (3,100 miles from Montana through Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico) and the Pacific Crest Trail (2,650 miles from Washington through Oregon and California). The agreements include providing funds for trail construction and maintenance to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the Continental Divide Trail Alliance’s Explorers Program, and sponsoring the Pacific Crest Trail Alliance Trail Fest held March 31-April 2 in Riverside California, an event to increase awareness of the trail. In partnership with Mountain the Test Team program to their membership base.

Those chosen to be part of the Exodus Test Team will hike portions of the three trails during the spring or summer of 2006. Mountain Hardwear will provide each participant with an Exodus pack. In exchange, Test Team members will document their trips with stories and photos for posting on Mountain Hardwear’s website. Participants are also encouraged to conceive and execute a trail stewardship project associated with their trip.

“As an outdoor gear company, we care deeply about the preservation and responsible use of these great American trails. Our Exodus Pack launch has provided an excellent opportunity to promote these worthy organizations as well as put our packs on the backs of passionate users,” said Ryan Hodgkin, Mountain Hardwear’s marketing manager.

Mountain Hardwear designs, sources and markets high-end mountaineering and outdoor equipment, apparel and accessories. Mountain Hardwear was established in 1993 by a group of outdoor industry veterans and is based in Richmond, Calif. The company distributes its products through specialty outdoor and sporting goods retailers in the United States and 25 countries worldwide. Mountain Hardwear has won numerous product and customer service awards since its inception. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Columbia Sportswear Company. RockCreek.com carries a full selection of Mountain Hardwear products, including two new packs using the Exodus frame system.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:46 AM

March 10, 2006

Wall Street Journal Chooses RockCreek.com for Deuter's Kid Comfort II Backpack

The Wall Street Journal chose RockCreek.com to outfit themselves with a Deuter Kid Comfort II Backpack. They chose the Kid Comfort as "Best Overall" in a test of backpack-style kid carriers. So next time you head out on the trail, take Junior with you with the Deuter Kid Comfort packs.

The lighter Deuter Kid Comfort II ($179 at Rock Creek) won unanimous approval. "I didn't know I was wearing it," dad James Kolenski said of the nearly six-pound pack after the hike was over. The carrier also had a well-designed kickstand, vents to help stay cool and lots of storage room. And our younger testers? Baby Megan fell asleep within minutes, her head pressing gently into the padded backrest. As mom Suzanne Kolenski concluded, "She's obviously cozy in there." If only they made one big enough to hold adults, too. It's our Best Overall. {See full article on wsj.com]

Head over to RockCreek.com to shop for your Kid Comfort pack today.

Ever since Hans Deuter started making bags to supply the Bavarian Post Office in 1898, Deuter has focused on making the best possible packs. By 1971, Deuter had become the largest producer of backpacks, luggage, and bags in Germany. The first AirComfort bags debuted in 1987, with the AirContact series following in 1996, the Advanced Comfort System in 1999, and the AC Lite series in 2002. The first kid carrier pack hit the market in 2003 and has been perfected in the years that followed.

In a little over a year, Deuter moved up from an outsider status on our sales floor to become our best selling pack line. We believe that Deuter fills a unique niche in the backpack market, and we are proud to offer their line to you.

Click here to see the full Deuter selection at RockCreek.com

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:59 PM

January 20, 2006

2006 Chaco Sandals in Stock!

We're psyched to announce that the new 2006 Chaco sandals arrived yesterday and are available for purchase right now. We still have more on the way, but a good number are available immediately.

Highlights of this year's line are the new ZX/1 and ZX/2 Performance Sandals, featuring two narrow straps rather than one wider strap, allowing the sandal to more accurately conform to the curvatures of your feet. The security of the toe loop, combined with the contoured Z-style footbed, provides unmatched performance and security making these sandals ideal for use in conditions that demand an extra measure of forefoot stability. Inspired by Chaco's classic basket weave, the ZX/1 and ZX/2 are attractive additions to their Performance line. Long the gold standard with river guides and outdoor professionals, Chaco's Performance line continues to transform first-time wearers into lifetime believers with durability, BioCentric" comfort and incomparable fit.

Chaco raises the bar again this year with the introduction of dramatically lighter polyurethane midsoles and two new performance outsoles. To create the new Uniweep sole, Chaco combined the most intelligent features from their previous Colorado and Terreno soles. With Vibram® durability, the Unaweep outsole is a great combination of slip resistance, traction and light weight. The lug pattern and spacing makes this sole virtually self-cleaning.

Be sure to read the Performance Sandal adjustment guide in order to properly fit your new sandals.

Click here to shop our Chaco store now.

Chaco sandals are approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:17 AM

January 17, 2006

New Gregory Packs Added

We recently added some new 2006 Gregory Packs to the site. Among the newcomers are:

The Baltoro: Designed for the backcountry adventurer seeking multiple pockets and zip-thru access points, the Gregory Baltoro, part of Gregory's Escape Series, satiates with 4300 cubic inches of highly organized backpack.

The exclusive response-suspension technology of the Baltoro automatically delivers a custom fit and compression stiffening panels stabilize the load. Buy Now.

The Deva 60 is Gregory's bestselling pack: redesigned and face-lifted for 2006. Updates include new response suspension, increased capacity, front pocket and redesigned side pockets. Features Gregory's precurved, women's-specific 3D harness.

This new dual density precurved harness and waistbelt is designed to “wrap” around your body's contours without wrinkling, eliminating abrasions and blisters. Hypalon weight transfer panels help distribute weight across the entire padding surface. Buy Now.

The Palisade: Past recipient of Outside magazine’s Best Value Rating, the Palisade Backpack by Gregory is a classic long trail pack that offers incredible capacity and load-carrying comfort at an amazing price.

The Palisade is a part of Gregory's Adventure Series, ideal for trips 5 days or longer. This year Gregory has complimented the top- and bottom entry points with a zip-through front pocket that provides additional access to the main pack body. Buy Now.

We also have a few other new packs and a couple messenger bags in our Gregory Store.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 4:35 PM

December 5, 2005

RockCreek Joins Castle Rock Initiative

RockCreek.com's parent company, Rock/Creek Outfitters, has just joined the initiative to lease Castle Rock in order to make it open to climbers. As the Southeastern Climbers' Coalition's Web site explains, "Castle Rock is located approximately 3 miles northwest of downtown Jasper, Tennessee. You catch a glimpse of this proud buttress as you drive up the hill towards Foster Falls (look to your right above Castle Rock church). Castle Rock is located on private land and has technically been closed to the climbing public. In the fall of 2004, The Southeastern Climbers Coalition began negotiations with the landowners to open access to this area. A verbal committment has been reached and a lease should be signed during the month of October 2005."

"Castle Rock is approximately 1/2 mile long of 80 to 120 ft. tall bullet sandstone. Castle Rock is known for many 5.11 and 5.12 sport climbs and one of the hardest routes in the state of Tennessee - Apes on Acid (5.13d). Castle Rock is listed as a 4 star (out of 5) crag in Tim Toula's "Rock and Road" guidebook."

If you'd like to contribute or read more about Castle Rock, check out the SEC page here.

Visit RockCreek.com today.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:21 PM

November 15, 2005

Introducing Crumpler, Messenger Bags with Attitude

Crumpler bags bring a new attitude to RockCreek.com. Designed by Stu Crumpler in Australia, made of DuPont Cordura, and sent out with quite a bit of silly fanfare, Crumpler bags will get you and your stuff wherever you need to go.

All Crumpler bags are waterproof, highly abrasion resistant, full of padding, and fun to carry around. They'll last forever and make you look cooler than you really are.

Shop our selection of Crumpler bags now at RockCreek.com's Crumpler Store.

In fact, be sure to check out their English Web site as well. It's, um, well, just go see: Crumpler Home Page.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:05 PM

November 10, 2005

Get What You Want with Wish Lists

Tired of socks? Get the gifts you want this year by using Rock Creek's Wish List. Simply look for the "Add to Wish List" graphic to the right of the product photograph on each paage. If you have not already set up a wish list, you will be prompted to do so. When you find all the things you want on your list, you may e-mail it to all your buddies and family members. Then, get what you want this holiday season!


Click here to enlarge photo.

We had a fun time shooting these photos yesterday. Travis from our downtown Chattanooga, TN store was a great sport and the perfect model for the shoot. Thanks Travis! By the way, that's peanut brittle with the socks, which isn't that bad a gift actually. But the climbing gear will last longer.

Posted by Mark McKnight at 3:01 PM

June 13, 2005

RockCreek.com's New Blog!

Welcome to RockCreek.com's New Blog! This is where the men and women behind the curtain come out and reveal the inner machinations of the Web's raddest specialty outdoor retail store. Yeah, we know it's a little cheesy, but this should be fun.

Stay tuned for updates, and don't forget to visit www.rockcreek.com

Posted by Mark McKnight at 10:52 AM